Fitness all-clear for Thompson

JOHN THOMPSON: Set to resume full training following his injury lay-off

ATHLETIC defender John Thompson is set for one of the biggest boosts of his Boundary Park career.

Thompson has been passed fit to resume full training with less than three weeks to go before the new season gets under way.

A series of knee problems has dogged the Irish international since he joined Athletic from Nottingham Forest last summer.

He has never been fully fit during his time at the club, but Thompson’s recovery from surgery has gone well and he will link up with his team-mates later this week.

Manager John Sheridan said: “I know what knee injuries can be like, and there have been times when Thommo played when he should have rested. It has always been in the back of his mind but, touch wood, the operation has been successful and he’s feeling a lot more confident with it.

“Last season was disappointing because he was on and off. He didn’t get going and we haven’t seen the best of him.”

Thompson (26) was first sidelined in October before returning for a brief substitute appearance at Everton in the FA Cup.

He was given a rare start against Millwall in March, only to break down with further knee-ligament damage within the first 10 minutes.

New signing Kieran Lee is also poised to start full training after a short lay-off due to hamstring trouble.

Athletic play their first home game of the pre-season build-up when they entertain Derby tomorrow night.

Athletic’s chances of recruiting midfield man Kevin Maher have increased, with Swindon Town withdrawing their interest.

Swindon boss Maurice Malpas commented: “He said he would get back to me by Monday morning but I haven’t heard a thing, so as far as I’m concerned it’s dead in the water.”