NEWPORT County AFC are set to be boosted by captain Aaron Wildig for Saturday’s League Two clash with Crewe – and winger Michael Spellman could make his debut.
The Exiles bid to end a three-game losing streak when they welcome the in-form Railwaymen to Rodney Parade.
They are still without influential defender Ciaran Brennan, who serves the last fixture of a three-game suspension, and are still stretched by injury.
However, County boss Nelson Jardim is hopeful of midfielder Wildig getting the green light to return from a concussion that meant he missed last weekend’s 2-0 defeat at Barrow.
“Aaron is looking great, we are just waiting for the final call from the doctor,” said the head coach.
“It’s great to have him back because he has been so important for us, scoring goals and leading the young boys on the pitch.”
Spellman has had a full week in training and could be involved in a matchday squad for the first time after suffering a thigh injury on the eve of the season.
The summer signing from Sunderland had looked poised to be in the first XI after featuring prominently in the friendlies and Jardim is excited to have him back in the fold.
“He is a great character and is such a good left-footer with his crosses and set-play delivery - they are class and one of, if not the, best that we have in the squad.
“He is a young boy and is excited about helping the team. We need to bring him up to match pace slowly but he is a technical player and another one to help the team.
“Spellman started very well but unfortunately got that injury out of the blue in a period when we were resting him to make sure he was good to go for that first game against Cheltenham.
“There were no indications that he was tired or fatigued, the injury just happened but he has dealt with it very well and professionally.
“He has worked hard every day and we are glad to have him as an option now. He is just so happy to be out there with the boys and he is excited to be back.”
Help is coming for County after a challenging September with Brennan back from suspension for Tuesday’s home game against Salford.
That will come too soon for centre-back James Clarke, midfielder Kai Whitmore and novice right back Joe Thomas but they are closing in on returns.
Jardim expects them to be out for just over another week, meaning they might be available for a pair of fixtures in Yorkshire.
Bradford on Monday, October 7 might be pushing it but the Exiles then play a key fixture at Harrogate the following Saturday.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here