The Scottish-born defender, who hasn't played since the end of last year, has resumed running following a visit to his specialist who is happy with his progress since a second hip operation pre-season.

"It has been a frustrating time for Gordon but he is feeling happier now," said physio John Dickens last night. "The hope is that he will be back in full training in a fortnight."

The club are also hoping that utility man Sean McDaid, who suffered a dislocated kneecap in a practice game late last season, will also be able to step up his training within the next week or so following an injection.

"We'll look at the knee again towards the end of next week and what improvement the injection has made and assess what to do next," said DIckens.

Striker Jason Price, yet to play this season following ankle surgery, looks to be ready for a return to action.

"Jason has trained really well this week and he finally looks to be over his ankle injury," said Dickens.

It is unlikely that Rovers boss Sean O'Driscoll will risk the Welshman in Saturday's Championship game against Coventry City, but he is expected to make his eagerly awaited return in next week's practice game at Leeds.

Welsh international Brian Stock has added special exercises to his dailly routine in order to try and counter the back problem which has dogged him at times this season.

"It is something that will flare up from time to time so we've got to try and manage it and the core exercises are part of that. He's been fine all week and there hasn't been a problem."

Defender Matt Mlls, feared to have suffered a broken jaw at Lofus Road on Saturday, has resumed full training as the jaw was only bruised.

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