Ward set to make his Rovers return

Influential midfielder could feature at Fleetwood tonight, reveals boss Taylor

MATT Taylor has confirmed Grant Ward will “possibly” be involved when Bristol Rovers visit Fleetwood tonight as the midfielder nears the end of a twomonth spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.

The 29-year-old had been key for the club when on the pitch this term, but, with just 17 appearances across all competitions so far this term, the problem has been getting him onto the pitch in the first place.

Ward’s quality was particularly notable in the first month of Taylor’s reign at the club, as Rovers secured statement wins against Bolton and Portsmouth, while also taking Championship side Norwich City to an FA Cup replay after a 1-1 draw at Carrow Road.

It was in that game at Norwich where the midfielder suffered his injury, having scored a cracker of an equaliser, but his return is certainly welcome, although Rovers will have to be careful with his reintroduction.

Although he will not be available for the long trip north, Brandon Aguilera is also expected back soon and could be involved in Saturday’s match at Lincoln after over a month out with a hamstring issue of his own.

Asked about potential returnees after Saturday’s 3-0 defeat to Derby, Taylor revealed: “Possibly Grant Ward. He’s the closest one, so he might well affect it from a bench capacity. We’ve got to be careful with his minutes, but we look forward to welcoming him back. Every time he’s on the pitch there will be a few nerves because obviously we know the severity of the previous injury.

“Brandon will come back to the squad on Thursday, so he might