TOWN’S pair of Nathans, Thompson and Byrne, will be eased into the pre-season program.
Neither player featured on Tuesday evening at Swindon Supermarine, though both were in attendance at the Webb’s Wood.
Thompson is still recovering from the hamstring injury that curtailed his involvement in the play-off final defeat.
The skipper has taken part in almost all of Town’s pre-season training, but given the injury was exacerbated by the defender trying to return too soon in order to play at Wembley, the club are being understandably cautious with his comeback.
The decision to rest Byrne, who had an ankle problem, at Marine was more precautionary and he could feature against Everton at the County Ground on Saturday.
“Nathan Thompson is fine,” said Town boss Mark Cooper on the duo’s fitness.
“We’re just not taking any risks with him, he’s done everything nearly with the rest of the boys. We just don’t want to risk him in a game yet.
“Nathan Byrne’s rest is precautionary, he’s got a slight ankle problem.”
Thompson and Byrne have been training this week at Town’s new training base, Beversbrook.
Cooper indicated there had been a few teething problems with the site in Calne, but the club and staff at the facility were working to iron out the creases.
“The new training ground is fine,” Cooper added. “It’s a work in progress, we’re getting used to it and they’re getting used to us. I’m sure it will be fine going forward.
“At the moment the pitches are still bedding in, they were late being renovated and there’s still a long way to go.
“We’re trying hard to make it as professional as we can.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel