Roberts returns for Roughyeds

Oldham captain Robert Roberts is set to return this weekend against Swinton after missing the last four games through injury.

Roberts has been struggling with a painful rib cartilage injury but resumed training this week and will be assessed again later on in the week.

He said: “I’m hoping to be okay, but a final decision will be made nearer the time. The problem with rib cartilage injuries is that there is nothing anyone can do to speed up the recovery process. It is just a matter of time.
 
“I’ll have another good run-out on Thursday and we’ll see where we go from there. I don’t want to set myself back and face another four or five week lay-off, but at the same time I am keen to get back on the pitch again.”
 
Coach Tony Benson said: “Two Bobs looked pretty good last night, so we are hoping he will come through Thursday’s session and then we will see if he has any reaction.”

Oldham lost for the second time in the league this season on Sunday, 36-12 at home to Dewsbury, and are set to welcome back Neil Roden for Sunday’s clash with Swinton.

Paul Reilly (ankle), Danny Halliwell (thigh) and Phil Joseph (hip and groin) are to be looked at later in the week to see if they are fit to face the Lions.