Goalkeeper Russell Hoult is stepping up his return to fitness, Manager Ian McParland has confirmed.

The Magpies custodian has been unable to feature in any of Notts pre-season fixtures after suffering a stress fracture to his right leg.

And after having a check-up scan last week which revealed pleasing results, Hoult has been able to increase the workload in his rehabilitation programme.

And it is hoped that after a few more days working alongside Physio Paul Smith he may well be able to return to full training with the rest of the squad.

"Houlty is coming on well, he had a scan last week and there's good news to report on Russ," said the Notts boss.

"He is going to kick on with his rehab, although he isn't ready to join the rest of the lads just yet.

"He will work with the Physio over the next few days and we will see how he goes.

"If he comes through that well, then he might be able to step it up again."

Hoult joined the Club in the summer on a two-year deal from Stoke City following an impressive fourteen-game loan spell from the Potters last season.

And on whether or not Hoult would be fit for the season's curtain-raiser at Bradford City McParland admitted he was unsure as to if Hoult would be fit in time - but did not rule the 35-year-old out completely.

If you are away from your computer over the summer for a few weeks or just a few days, you can keep up to date with the very latest from Meadow Lane on our Official WAP Website - in conjunction with nottscountyfc.co.uk. Our WAP site can be accessed from your mobile phone by simply visiting http://mobile.nottscountyfc.co.uk - so make sure you bookmark it!