Akwasi and Tavernier set for training but GT could miss out on target
Graham Turner has revealed right back James Tavernier and striker Akwasi Asante are on course to return to training later this week.
He hopes both Tavernier, who missed last weekend's defeat at Leyton Orient owing to an ankle injury, and Asante, sidelined since the pre-season clash with Bolton owing to a hamstring complaint, will be available for Saturday's home game against Swindon.
"Both look likely to be joining in training on Thursday," said the manager. "It's been a close thing whether Akwasi joins in this morning or not but I think we'll probably leave it until Thursday and see how he goes then.
"Akwasi was just starting to score. He had scored against Bolton and Liverpool's development squad so it was a pity, especially with him being a front man as that's where we're a bit short.
"It was obviously also a blow to lose Dave Winfield just before the season was due to start. It took a big, physical presence out of the team, but these things happen and you have to get over it."
GT continues to work on strengthening his squad but believes one of his targets may now be out of reach after an excellent performance in front of him for his parent club's reserve team last night.
"I went to an interesting game down south last night," he said. "The player I went to watch was outstanding so I no longer think we'll get him.
"It was on the cards that we would get him but then his performance last night would suggest he'll either be sold for substantial money or he'll be in somebody's first team.
"I thought we were making good progress with it. When you go to games like that you want the player to do okay but not to be too good. But the lad was impressive so I think we'll close the door on that one now."