Armstrong to resume playing again after injury

By Ray Simpson

Armstrong to resume playing again after injury

Darlington striker Graeme Armstrong could return to action in Saturday’s friendly against Whitby at...

Darlington striker Graeme Armstrong could return to action in Saturday’s friendly against Whitby at the Turnbull Ground.

“Army” suffered a bad abdominal injury in the dying seconds of the play off final victory over Bamber Bridge, and spent a fortnight in hospital following an operation. He was unable to join in the celebrations following the final whistle because of the severe pain and discomfort following the clash with the Bamber Bridge keeper, and so isn’t in any of the photos of those memorable moments.

Manager Martin Gray said; “It’s great news that Graeme could start playing again, he has made a quick recovery from the injury. At one point we thought that he would be out until September or October, but he has been training regularly with the rest of the lads, and now he’s got the go-ahead to play again from our medical staff.”

There will be some last minute checks before the game, and all being well, he will play part of the game.

Armstrong, who was at Whitby before he joined Quakers, was the club’s top scorer last season with 26 including one in the final against Bamber Bridge. The fans will also remember him laying the ball back perfectly for David Dowson to slot home an unforgettable winner against Spennymoor in the play off semi final.

"I've had a couple of training sessions and I don't feel too bad," said Armstrong. "Plus, now that I'm on holiday from school, I'm training by myself twice a day. Physically, I'm ok.

"Mentally, I need to have a game or two to feel how the injury is."

One player definitely out is winger Rob Youhill, who has an elbow injury, otherwise there will be a full squad on duty.