TOWN may have to wait until Friday to get leading marksman Jon Stead back into training.
The 20-year-old is under treatment for Achilles and hamstring injuries and was today reported to be feeling "quite sore."
Manager Peter Jackson had hoped the 18-goal frontman would rejoin the senior squad today for the build-up to Sunday's match against York City at Bootham Crescent (3.00).
That wasn't possible and Jackson commented: "We are going to give Steady all the time he needs.
"He is still quite sore, so there is no sense in rushing things.
"If he can join in training tomorrow then fine, if not we will look towards Friday.
"At least we have an extra 24 hours this week with the game being on Sunday, and I still expect him to be fit for the trip to York."
Speculation still surrounds Stead's future with the transfer window open until a week on Saturday, but Jackson reacted angrily to suggestions that Sunderland have increased their initial bid of £800,000 by another £50,000.
"I saw those reports on the television last night and I can honestly say there is no truth in them whatsoever," he said.
"We have not heard from Sunderland on Jon Stead and we have not heard from anyone else either."
Jackson gave a full 90 minutes to midfield kingpin Lee Fowler in yesterday's Storthes Hall practice match against Chesterfield, simply because suspensions have denied him so much action recently.
Town came from behind to win 2-1 with goals from John Thorrington and Adnan Ahmed as Jon Newby completed the latest stage of his comeback from knee surgery.
While the match was taking place, skipper Rob Edwards (hamstring) and frontman Andy Booth (groin) did some light training and reported no adverse effects as they step up rehabilitation.
Defender Paul Scott, who has had ankle surgery, is now walking freely again and looks on course to make his return in the four weeks stipulated.
Ian Hughes (knee surgery) is still using crutches but feeling fine.
