On the comeback trail

Last updated : 30 January 2009 By Dane Vincent

Nearly there: Tann looks set to contend for a start over the next week.
Injuries have mounted up quite heavily at numerous points this term but there seems to be some light at the end of this particular tunnel.

Adam Tann, who returned to full training several weeks ago, is just about ready for sustained first-team action after spending the last few games on the bench.

A persistent hamstring problem has kept Gavin Strachan out for much of his time with the club but he is likely to be in contention next week, meaning that he could feature against Gillingham on Tuesday.

Free scoring midfielder, Richard Butcher is set to return to training next week as well following two months on the sidelines nursing a broken metatarsal.

There were fears that Michael Edwards was going to be spending some time in the medical room but it turned out to be a dead leg that led to his withdrawal in the midweek tie with Rochdale. He is expected to shake off the knock to captain his team.

Kevin Pilkington (knee) and Russell Hoult (shoulder) are still out.

Chesterfield will of course be without full-back Phil Picken for their short trip to Meadow Lane.

He has been given permission to turn out against his parent club but insists that he will be giving his all to ensure that he makes it three home wins in a row for the Magpies.

Speaking to the Nottingham Evening Post, he explained: "My loyalties will not be divided. I might be a Chesterfield player but I will be playing for Notts and I want to win.

"Whenever I am playing, in whatever team, I always want to win. I am a winner.

"I was a little bit shocked when I found out. But I am going to give my all for the team I am playing for, and do the best I can."