Smith Fitness Doubt
Tuesday, 17th Jul 2001 00:00

Smudger A Doubt For Start Of Season

Speaking on the club's official site, club physio Richard Evans said "" The op was successful, which is good news for Jason. It is a normal part of his rehabilitation, and he now knows that he is set to return within 4 to 6 weeks, so if all goes well, he'll be in the line-up at Macclesfield."

With the new season just three and a half weeks away, there has to be some doubt over Smudger's fitness for first couple of games and with central defensive colleague Matthew Bound serving a four game suspension, leaves John Hollins with a headache over his team selection.

Smudger was near enough ever present in the defensive five that won us the championship the season before last but last season was cut short by his ankle injury which was originally sustained against Brentford in the LDV trophy.

Smith did make a brief comeback in March against Stoke but aggravated the injury and his season ended.

With Bound and potentially Smith out of action, the dilemma remains on who will partner Kris O'Leary at the back with Nick Cusack, Chris Todd or Andrew Mumford being the likely alternatives.