Step in right direction for Blackman

ATHLETIC believe they have discovered the cause of on-loan striker Nick Blackman’s foot injury.

They have found the trouble is caused by a collapsed arch in his right foot which places pressure on the bones.

Athletic are looking at a new pair of insoles for his boots and trainers to help eliminate future problems.

The 19-year-old is pain free after a fortnight’s rest and Athletic are hoping he will soon be able to resume full training.

Senior players Jon Worthington and Joe Colbeck had a run out for the reserves who lost 2-1 at Morecambe last night in the totesport.com League.

Midfield man Worthington was looking for competitive action after a recent lay-off with an ankle injury while winger Colbeck had lost his first-team starting spot for the last two matches.

Substitute Tom Eaves halved Athletic’s deficit last night with an 82nd minute header and they were unlucky not to equalise in the last minute when Djeny Bembo-Leta’s shot was spectacularly cleared off the goalline.