NATHAN CLARKE has given the `thumbs-up' to Town after his return to action.

The 19-year-old defender - who has played just two and a half matches in the past 16 months - played for 61 minutes of yesterday's 2-2 Reserves' draw against Hull City at the McAlpine.

After knee surgery earlier in the summer and a patient build-up to fitness, it was an encouraging workout for Clarke, who acknowledged a crowd of 363 for their applause as he left the field.

"I had a good chat with Nathan after the game and he felt fine," said manager Peter Jackson, who watched throughout.

"He obviously needs more games, but I was pleased with him yesterday and we certainly don't want to rush him back."

Clarke seems certain to play again when the Reserves are at home to Bradford next Wednesday (2.00).

Meanwhile, as the Academy look forward to their first match of the season against Wimbledon at Emley's Welfare Ground tomorrow (11.00), Jackson's senior side look like having a sell-out following for Monday's trip to face unbeaten Doncaster at Belle Vue (3.00).

Town have fewer than 1,000 left in the standing section and they will only be on sale until after Saturday's home game.

The ticket office will not be open on Sunday or Monday and no tickets will be available at Belle Vue.

All 300 seats have already sold and prices on the terrace are £10 for adults and £5 concessions.

Town chief executive Andrew Watson is the guest of the Supporters Club in the Football Trust Suite tonight (7.30).

The Survival Trust have announced another public meeting to be held at the McAlpine on Wednesday, September 24.

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