Winger Elliott set for Wanderers return
Jamie Elliott is set to return to action when the Wanderers host Bristol United on Monday night.
The winger has been sidelined by a hamstring problem, but is now back in training and ready make his comeback at Franklin’s Gardens.
Centre Tom Stephenson is another player likely to recover in time for the game as Saints boss Jim Mallinder assesses his options.
On Elliott, Mallinder said: “He’s had a hamstring problem. He got that in one of the pre-season games so he’s been recovering from that. Hopefully he’ll start on Monday night.
“He’s been training fully with us this week, as has Tom Stephenson who we expect to be back next week.”
There was plenty of positive news from the Wanderers’ 22-16 defeat at Worcester last Monday.
Hooker Mike Haywood, who had shoulder surgery at the end of last season, started while Matt Williams, Joel Hodgson, Tom Mercey and Ben Nutley got their first game time from the bench.
Williams had been out since breaking his left against London Irish in April, while summer signing Hodgson was back after overcoming a wrist injury sustained during his time at former club Newcastle.
And Mallinder said: “It’s fantastic for all those players, lots hadn’t played in pre-season.
“We’ve got another game this Monday night so another opportunity there for lots of players to push and hopefully claim a first-team spot.”