BOURNEMOUTH head coach Will Croker labelled as a “huge boost” the return to fitness of inspirational forward Alan Manning.

The Lions stalwart snapped his Achilles tendon while playing in Sam Yarwood’s memorial match in August and subsequently went under the knife.

Ever present in 2014-15, Manning had been told to expect a season on the sidelines but made a quicker-than-expected recovery.

And the combative campaigner is in contention for the remaining seven National Three South West fixtures this term, starting with the home clash against second-bottom Old Patesians at Chapel Gate tomorrow (2.30pm).

Head coach Croker told the Daily Echo: “It’s fantastic to have Alan back. He is a real talisman, a fantastic player and has one of the best work rates of any player I’ve ever worked with. He brings another dimension to us when he’s available.

"To have someone like that come back in looking fit and hungry is a huge boost for us."

Lions have received further good news with Anthony Fitch and Wyn Roberts back in contention, while Alex Sutherland is also set to return.

Croker’s side will hope to bounce back from a shock 10-6 defeat to Old Centralians.

Ben Allman faces at least a month out with medial ligament damage sustained in that game but John Peart’s knee problem is not as bad as first thought.

Duncan Soden, whose kneecap popped out and back in during the defeat, is available.

Lions: Sutherland, Chandler, Hancox, Chislett, Roberts, Gwyther, Hardcastle, Tarrant, Fraser, Firetto, Christopher, Soden, Manning, Rees, Hennings. Replacements: McDonald, Treloar, Veneroso.