First-team hopefuls Gerard Nash and Antonio Murray are well on the road to recovery as the 2004/05 campaign approaches. 

The teenage pair, who both underwent surgery last season, are keen to stake their claims for a regular spot in the senior side and have been working hard in pre-season training.

Central defender Nash, 17, a Republic of Ireland youth international, made his first-team debut in the 6-1 home win over Burnley last October.

He went under the surgeon's knife for a cruciate ligament operation in December but is progressing well in his fight back to full fitness.

The 19-year-old Murray, a midfielder, took his senior bow against Derby at the end of the 2002/03 campaign, but didn't feature at all last term as he was struck down with a shin injury.

Both players are likely to figure strongly in manager Joe Royle's plans as Town approach the 2004 season with a reduced squad. 

"Both lads are doing very well," said Town physio Dave Williams. "Gerard's is probably the longer recovery, but they are both working hard and coming along nicely. 

"Antonio is now joining in full training with no problems, while Gerard is doing all the running activities and working with the ball a little bit. He's fine in straight lines but has to be careful twisting and turning at the moment."