SKIPPER WILL BE BACK IN JOE TIME

Boss delighted as Newell close to return

- BY DARREN JOHNSTONE

RETURNING Joe Newell is making his presence felt on the training ground.

But manager David Gray has warned his skipper he faces a fight to get back in the Hibs team.

The midfielder is back on the grass eyeing a comeback after nearly 10 frustrating months on the sidelines with a groin issue.

Newell has not kicked a ball since December 29 and has suffered setbacks in his bid to get back to fitness.

But there is finally light at the end of the tunnel for the 32 year-old and Gray said: “It's really positive, especially for Joe because it’s been difficult for him.