JAY Spearing is closing in on a first-team return for Wanderers after re-joining his team-mates for light training duties yesterday.

Phil Parkinson brought his players in for a de-brief and recovery session at Lostock after a successful trip to Priestfield, including the midfielder who has missed the last three games with a knee injury.

It had been feared Spearing would sit out the rest of the season when he limped off at half time in the 1-1 draw against Bristol Rovers at the Macron but scans have since shown no major damage to the joint.

It is understood he suffered a strain rather than a tear of the ligament and the good news for Bolton fans is that he could be ready to start games again in just a couple of weeks.

Wanderers have kept the 28-year-old’s condition largely under wraps but speaking after the game on Tuesday night Parkinson said: “Jay is making very good progress. He’ll be back playing sooner rather than later.”

The players will be given today off to put their feet up before reporting again for duty at the training ground tomorrow to prepare for the Northampton Town game.

“It’s important we recover properly,” the manager said. “It is a quick turnaround for Saturday but going into that game with back-to-back away wins should put a spring in everyone’s step.

“We have had two tough away games but results like that make everyone want to get out there and go again.”

Parkinson has also said thanks to the 517 fans who made the 500-mile midweek round trip to Gillingham.

“Me and Steve walked out of the tunnel in the corner and looked across and said this is an incredible turn out on a Tuesday night down here,” he told The Bolton News.

“It was terrific to see so many people making a very long trip and then go all the way back again but at least they’ll do it with a smile on their face, and that’s what it’s all about.

“To make that long trip, which is probably as far away from Bolton as you can get in this division, is quite special and I’d like to say thanks.”