Alex Lacey is set to play some part in Saturday’s behind-closed-doors friendly at Alfreton Town (kick-off 3pm).
The defender sustained a back injury on the first day of pre-season training and missed last weekend’s visit to Ilkeston as a result.
But Neal Ardley and the medical staff believe he’s fit enough to have a run-out this weekend.
“Alex has trained all week with the group, which is great news, and we’ll start building his minutes up from Saturday,” said the boss.
“He may be ready for 30 minutes as a starting point and we’ll work from there. He’s only had a week’s training after missing the first fortnight.”
Ben Turner has also stepped up his recovery but both he and Lacey will be given the time they need to return to full fitness.
“Now we’ve got Sam Graham in the building, who’s already got some minutes under his belt, it eases the pressure on rushing Ben and Alex back when they’re not ready,” added Ardley.
“We can get them back in their own time and then have real competition for places – which we feel we have all around the team.
“There are good players in every position and we’re delighted with that.”
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