Cookson expecting all-clear

David Cookson

OLDHAM RL boss Scott Naylor is keeping fingers crossed for good news on injuries when his players report for training tonight.

There were no obvious worries immediately after the demanding Challenge Cup defeat at Bradford Bulls, but the picture will be clearer when the players have had 48 hours for problems to show.

Centre David Cookson, out with a groin injury since opening-day on March 2, expects to be cleared to play this weekend.

He was in a positive mood after watching the Bradford cup tie and looking forward to playing, if not in the first team at Whitebank on Sunday against Gateshead Thunder (3pm kick off), then perhaps in a run-out for the under-20s.

Naylor is hoping for good news about Adam Files, who has had an operation on the knee he damaged in training three weeks ago.

There is every chance the Roughyeds coach could have 21 players available for the weekend.