Striker Smith back in training as injuries clear up for Cobblers

Harry Smith was put through his paces ahead of kick-off against Exeter on Saturday. Picture: Pete Norton

Striker Harry Smith has handed the Cobblers a timely fitness boost by returning to full training ahead of Tuesday's trip to fellow play-off hopefuls Cheltenham Town.

The 24-year-old has been out for nearly two months after sustaining an ankle injury during the defeat to Crawley Town on Boxing Day.

Smith required over 10 minutes of treatment before being stretchered off at the Broadfield Stadium, prompting fears he might have suffered a season-ending injury.

But he's made swift progress and could even be available for selection when the Cobblers head to Whaddon Road on Tuesday, while Arsenal loanee James Olayinka is also not far away.

"Harry Smith is now in field-based training again and James Olayinka is also back in field-based training," revealed manager Keith Curle.

"It's a good time to get more options available because it increases the competition, which is what you want and need.

"I don't think Harry will be far away for Cheltenham and James will be vying for selection too although Tuesday might be a little too soon.

"He's told me he's been working his socks off down at Arsenal so it'll be good to get him involved again."

Midfielder Alan McCormack made a welcome return to the pitch on Saturday when he came on as a late substitute against Exeter City.

"It's great to have him back," added Curle. "When Ryan Watson took the bang to the head, I looked round at Alan and in my head I thought 'there's 40 minutes left, that wasn't in the script!'

"In my mind I had 20 minutes planned. He managed 15 but you could probably add another five minutes for the warm-up he did!

"But this is an important stage of the season and we need players coming back."