LEE CLARK is hopeful over Lee Peltier’s chances of facing League I leaders Norwich City at the Galpharm on Saturday.
Town’s classy right-back has missed the last two games after damaging an ankle late on in Town’s 2-2 draw with Leeds United.
The 23-year-old is responding to treatment from Dave Buckby and has been working on a one-to-one basis with the physio.
Now Clark, the former Norwich assistant manager, is hoping his close-season capture from Yeovil can rejoin full training.
Liverpool product Peltier has been absent from only three matches since his arrival, and the boss, whose side are seventh, said: “We’ve missed him, that’s for sure.
“He’s a terrific athlete and a very solid and consistent defender, the type you only tend to notice on the odd occasion something goes wrong.
“That speaks volumes, and it would be great to have him available for what is a very attractive game.
“Lee had an x-ray to ensure there was no bone damage, he’s been working hard on his rehab, and at this stage, we’re optimistic.”
Clark, whose on-loan Liverpool frontman Nathan Eccleston starts a three-match ban against Norwich after his red card at Gillingham on Saturday, has used both Tom Clarke and Krystian Pearce at right-back during Peltier’s spell out.
Antony Kay’s caution at Gillingham means the midfielder is just one off accumulating 10 yellow cards and therefore a two-match ban.
Centre-back Neal Trotman and winger Anthony Pilkington are both on eight bookings.
Town reserves will chase a sixth straight win in their totesport.com League East Division derby against Bradford at Emley tomorrow (2.00).
