ANTHONY PILKINGTON will be given until the very last minute to prove his fitness for Town’s trip to Brentford on Saturday.
The 21-year-old left the Galpharm on crutches after the 2-0 win against Oldham, his left ankle protected in a Wayne Rooney-style support.
Manager Lee Clark – who has striker Lee Novak (knee) rejoining the squad for the first time today – explained that was “purely precautionary” and is in no mood to rule out Pilkington at Griffin Park.
“It’s a bit too early to say how Pilks will be, but we are monitoring him closely and will give him every chance,” said Clark, whose side are sixth in League I, three points clear of play-off chasers Colchester who face Swindon at home on Saturday.
“He twisted his ankle after going in for a block tackle and, while it’s still a bit tender and bruised, we’ve got another couple of days to see how he is.
“Everyone is fighting fit at this stage of the season – in fact training is being tapered down to make sure the lads are fresh for matches – so Pilks could step straight into the game if necessary.”
Clark stressed Novak will not be rushed.
“He’ll do the football warm-up with us and then we’ll see how he goes,” said the boss.
“We’re going to be careful, because we don’t want a setback after Lee has done so well.”
