Dan Jones is now ‘fitter than ever’ says Harrogate Town boss
Harrogate Town defender Dan Jones is in “the best shape” manager Simon Weaver has ever seen him as he closes in on a return to action.
The 26-year-old, who is on a season-long loan from Salford City, has not played since November having severely damaged his groin in training.
Jones injured several of his adductor muscles, which means the tendon was pulled away from the bone in his groin, leaving him requiring surgery.
It was initially feared that he would not play again until late February, but having progressed so well in terms of his rehabilitation, Jones was able to join in with group training this week.
And Weaver, who says Jones has come back in peak physical condition, is hopeful that his left-back will be available for selection again slightly ahead of schedule. “Dan might only be a week away now, he has been training really well,” said the Harrogate chief, who saw today’s game with Orient postponed due to the weather.
“He’s worked so hard to get himself back from what was a nasty injury quicker than we initially expected.
“He’s been going through the gears big time. He looks fitter than ever, he’s in the best shape I’ve ever seen him.
“He’s shown real progress and it’s been pleasing for me to see.”
Having started five of Harrogate’s previous six matches prior to getting injured, Jones’s form certainly suggests that his return will leave boss Weaver with another selection dilemma.
“Dan was just starting to hit his stride,” the Town boss added.
“It will be great to have him back in contention and have that natural left-footer as an option.
“It’s going to provide me with another headache, but competition for places is what we want, so it’s a good headache to have,” he added.