Wise eyes Cress comeback

By James Pearson  

Wise eyes Cress comeback

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Injury-prone striker Richard Cresswell is set to hand Leeds United a boost by returning to training.

The former Preston man has managed just seven Championship outings this season due to a series of injuries.

With Tore Andre Flo and David Healy both on the sidelines, Wise is delighted Cresswell will soon be back at his disposal.

This weekend's crunch clash with Crystal Palace is likely to come too soon for the 29-year-old, although he could return the following week at Cardiff City.

"Hopefully Cressy will be training in a week or so," Wise told the club's official website. "We'll bring him in slowly.

"Cress is the sort of player who will go through the pain barrier for you. He wants to come back and help.

"That is a fantastic attitude, but the last thing I want to do is set him back. I only want players to come back when they are properly ready to go.

"His body might have been telling him something his mind wasn't, but he is busting a gut to get back. It's not just yet, but hopefully a week, maybe 10 days."

Leeds could yet boost their striking options in the coming days with West Brom's John Hartson reportedly high on the club's wanted list.

The Welsh hit-man has been told he can leave on loan and with the emergency loan window opening on Wednesday, Leeds could make a move, although Norwich City are also said to be interested.