Boss Curle says Ricky Holmes sets 'a great example' for Cobblers squad

Holmes made the first start of his second Sixfields stint on Tuesday night, playing the first hour of the Papa John's Trophy clash with Stevenage.

He was neat and tidy, full of running, and looked the most likely to make something happen for Town in what was a pretty dull 0-0 draw.

That showing followed two second-half substitute appearances against Milton Keynes Dons, Oxford City and Accrington Stanley, cameos that were the player's first senior action in almost two years.

Holmes feared his career was over at the age of 31 due to a serious back injury, but with the help of Cobblers fitness Pablo Garcia he has worked tirelessly to get himself fit again.

Curle rewarded him for his efforts with a short-term deal at the PTS Academy Stadium, and now Holmes is setting about making up for lost time, and striving to rediscover the form that saw him write his name into Cobblers folklore with a string of stunning performances and goals in the 2015-16 League Two title win.

Cobblers boss Curle has been hugely impressed with the 33-year-old's determination, and as well as believing he will make an impact on the pitch, he says Holmes' desire and appetite is going to rub off on the rest of the squad.

"Ricky is on a pathway now that I don't think he would have envisaged," said Curle.

"He was on an upward spiral when he left here, and then the back injury set him back.

"But he has shown great mental strength to come back, to want to come back, and to want to be able to go out and compete.

"The work that he has done off the field is a great example for young players, to show that focus, that mindset, that this is what he wants to do, and that he wants to play football.

"His enthusiasm is having a positive effect on the group."

Holmes will be hoping he can bag a second full League debut for the Cobblers when they travel to Burton Albion on Saturday, but Curle has also urged patience from any supporters who expect the player to turn on the style as he did five years ago.

When asked how long it may take a player who has been out for as long as Holmes has to get back to his best, the Town manager said: "Because of the affinity Ricky has with this football club, will we see the same Ricky Holmes as the club did a number of years ago?

"The likelihood is that we will see glimpses and flashes of it, and that is what we hope."