GOALKEEPER Ben Gathercole is set to return to the Ilkeston team this weekend after recovering from injury.

The Nottingham Forest teenager has been out of action since damaging his thigh in November but is now ready to resume his work experience with the Robins.

During his absence, Ilkeston have used four different keepers – Alex Archer, Dan Lowson, Sam Andrew and Academy product Scott Low, who made his debut against Loughborough Dynamo at the end of last month.

Robins boss Kevin Wilson is delighted to have Gathercole available again.

"The injury took a lot longer to mend than we expected and filling the goalkeeping spot in the meantime has been a real problem for us," said Wilson.

"But the arrangement with Forest always was that Ben would be back to carry on where he left off as soon as he was fully recovered and I'm expecting him to be available for Saturday.

"I kept in regular touch with Forest's goalkeeping coach, Paul Barron, and he's pleased with the work that Ben has done in training over the past couple of weeks.

"I also spoke to Ben last week and he can't wait to get going again. He enjoys playing for Ilkeston and he has done remarkably well for us this season.

"Having him back will be a big boost for everyone. It will be like having a new signing."

Ilkeston should beat the weather on Saturday as they are due to travel to West Midlands side Romulus, who play on Sutton Coldfield Town's artificial pitch at Coles Lane.