SCOTT CLOSE TO COMEBACK

PETERBOROUGH skipper Scott Nicholls is preparing for his first laps since winter surgery.

Nicholls, who led the Panthers to the 2021 Premiership title and will also be heading up Oxford’s Championship return this year, has received positive news from his physio after work to correct a shoulder problem.

He said: “I had another appointment with my physio last week, and he’s really pleased with the progress.

“The shoulder feels great, and the training is being stepped up. I’m not worried that my fitness isn’t quite where it should be as I have a few weeks yet to be where I want to be.

“I had been asked to go to Macon in France for my first skid but had a few things going on and couldn’t make it.

“I’m looking at getting back on a bike in the next couple of weeks, so that’s something I’m looking forward to.”