TONY CARSS was back in full training with Town today and ready to prove he's fit for an immediate recall against Walsall.
The 28-year-old midfielder has been out for a month since he underwent knee surgery but could fill a valuable void at the Galpharm Stadium on Saturday (3.00).
Jon Worthington and Danny Schofield are both suspended, so Carss' return - probably alongside Chris Brandon and Lee Fowler - would be a boon for manager Peter Jackson.
Town, who were being filmed in Sky TV's `Crossbar Challenge' today, have been further encouraged by the return to training of wing-back Andy Holdsworth.
The 21-year-old hurt his left shoulder during last Saturday's 3-3 draw against Bristol City at Ashton Gate, when he went off after only 18 minutes, and he missed the midweek LDV Vans Trophy victory against Morecambe.
Holdsworth has responded to treatment from physio Lee Martin, however, and the damaged ligaments appear to have healed.
"It's great news to have Tony Carss and Andy Holdsworth back in training and we'll see how they go," said Jackson today.
"With Worthington and Schofield missing it's vital we have Carssy available for selection, and as long as there are no problems on the training ground, he should be okay.
"He has been doing a lot of general fitness work under the supervision of Lee Martin since he had the operation, but this is the first time he's been able to join in with the main squad.
"With Andy Holdsworth, we were worried last weekend that it might be a more serious injury than it's turned out to be and, after having his left arm in a sling for 48 hours, the shoulder seems to be fine."
Nat Brown deputised for Holdsworth last Saturday and in the LDV and is poised to continue if needed.
Efe Sodje completes his three-match ban against Paul Merson's side, who are fourth from bottom of the table following their 1-0 home defeat by Brentford.
Striker Andy Booth (hamstring) is still rated 50-50 for Saturday.
