Richo set for early comeback?

Last updated : 21 December 2004 By Richard Brown

Richardson, who goes into the hectic Christmas period on the back of a ‘minor’ knee-operation, has been ruled out since September with a knee injury. Prior to the injury – under former boss Gary Mills – had notched up twelve outings in all competitions being struck down with the injury, originally thought to sideline the stalwart for around two/three months.

Currently operating as caretaker manager at the club where he is currently the longest serving player, Richardson goes into the ever-hectic Christmas period with a none-too shabby four wins from his opening nine games as a manager – a wins per game figure of a win every 2.25 games, this oppressing Mills’ record of a win every four matches.

The gaffer in action...
But with Matty Williams and Julien Baudet both just one booking from an automatic one-match ban, the Christmas period – that will see the Magpies come up against high-flying Northampton, Scunthorpe and Cheltenham – will prove the ultimate test for the crocked manager’s early career hopes.

Speaking to the Nottingham Evening Post earlier today, Richardson said "It all went very well and I spoke to the physio and surgeon afterwards and they are very pleased with the knee."

"They had to trim a few bits, tidy up the knee and basically flushed all the rubbish out."

"There was a little wear and tear but the surgeon did not have to do anything major that would have kept me out for a while."

"That is a great relief, superb news because I am still a player and want to play football."

"I have now got to rest it for a week and I will be available in three weeks. I just have to make sure I do not do anything stupid and I will be fine."

Richardson’s first obstacle will come on Boxing Day with the visit of Northampton Town. Stay posted.