Paper Talk: Pair winging their way back

Last updated : 26 March 2004 By Paul Farrington
The wide boys have been missing from the squad in recent weeks due to injury but both are closing in on a first-team return.

Manager Jewell believes getting some natural width back into the side will be of great benefit as Latics aim to clinch a play-off slot.

Right-winger Teale has spent the last month on the sidelines after fracturing his collarbone at Stoke.

But he returned to training yesterday and could be ready for selection as early as the visit of Wimbledon to the JJB a week on Saturday.

On the opposite wing, Mahon is stepping up his recovery from a hamstring strain which has kept him out of three games.

And he could even be in contention for Watford this weekend if his injury is properly cleared up.

With the injury-hit Steve McMillan also returning to training this week, the casualty list is beginning to shorten, and that will give Jewell more options.

He said: "We were all in the gym on Monday and Alan Mahon was able to do some work with us.

"His injury is feeling a lot easier and hopefully we can get him back quite soon.
"Tealely has started joining in training and now it is down to him as to how soon he comes back.

"He has recovered really well from the broken collarbone because it's only about a month since he did it.

"I'd say he might be in and around the squad next week, probably after the Watford game.

"He told me that the specialist had advised no physical contact for now, but I've never known Tealely have physical contact!"

While the two wingers have been missed, Jewell is pleased with the way Andy Liddell and Lee McCulloch have done in their absence.

He said: "Lids has done well in Tealely's place and Lee has gone about the job on the other side without any groans or grunts. I was speaking to Gareth Farrelly and he has been very impressed by the lads' honesty, endeavour and desire here.

"Maybe he's been surprised by the quality, but the thing which stands out is how hard we work."

Jewell is expecting a tough contest from Watford as Latics try to cement their place in the top six, while the Hornets bid to keep clear of the relegation zone.

He said: "Teams near the bottom are just as dangerous as those near the top.

"League tables don't tend to tell the full story at the moment, so we know we're in for a tough game.

"Watford have one of the poorest away records but have picked up the majority of their points at home."

Source: Wigan Evening Post.