Hazell winning fitness battle

REUBEN Hazell is expected to recover from injury in time for Athletic’s home clash with Bristol Rovers on Saturday, writes CHRIS LYNHAM.

The skipper limped out of Tuesday’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy defeat against Shrewsbury with a thigh strain.

But early indications from subsequent tests on the knock suggest he will be fit for a swift return to npower League One action when the Pirates visit Boundary Park at the weekend.

Athletic chief executive Alan Hardy said: “The situation looks positive. Reuben should be fit for Saturday.”

Jason Jarrett, who has formed a promising partnership with Hazell at the heart of the Athletic defence, missed the Shrewsbury game through illness, but is also expected to return to Paul Dickov’s squad.

However, a question mark hangs over the fitness of fellow absentee Ritchie Jones.

The winger, who has earned rave reviews from the manager for his hard-working displays up and down the flank this season, has been struggling with a hamstring strain.

Hardy added: “We are not sure if Ritchie will be fit in time for Saturday. His injury is being assessed and he is having treatment.

“We are waiting to see whether or not he is able to train before the match.”