JON WORTHINGTON will figure in tonight’s Reserve derby against Bradford City at the Galpharm (7.00).
But the Town captain is unlikely to be in contention for Saturday’s League I showdown with Luton.
The tough-tackling 23-year-old has been told he must be patient as he works his way back to full fitness after a groin problem.
Worthington, who has featured in only four of Town’s nine first-team matches so far this season, the last of them the 2-0 home defeat by Carlisle on August 25, has had a reaction to the groin surgery he had last season.
The insertion of a mesh to strengthen the area was his third groin operation in as many years.
Worthington has been told the natural healing process is likely to take another year – and during that time he may have to take rest spells.
“It’s a case of easing Jon back in,” explained physio Lee Martin.
“That started with the Reserve game against Wolves a week ago, and will continue tonight.
“We will probably have to follow a similar pattern all season – getting him to play around a dozen games, then giving him a rest.
“He understands he will get aching in the abdominal region, but he was experiencing pain, and that’s clearly not right.”
While he is resigned to being without Worthington for the Noon meeting with Luton, manager Andy Ritchie is hoping defender David Mirfin and midfielder Danny Schofield will be available.
They are due back in training tomorrow after suffering back and ankle problems respectively.
