Oldham have been boosted by the news striker Dean Smalley has been given the all clear to make his playing return.

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Smalley (top) has not played this term after damaging his back in pre-season, but came through a friendly last week and is set to step up his workload for the reserves on Monday.

"I played a couple of days ago, my legs are stiff but more important my back was oaky afterwards," Smalley told the club's official website.

"It's been tough, not even kicking a ball, but I feel fine now so I just have to work on my fitness and core strength to make sure it doesn't come back.

"I'll be back fully fit in two to three weeks hopefully."