Defender Cliff Byrne could be in line for a reserve team run-out next week.

The Scunthorpe United club captain rejoined training today as he continues his recovery from a long-term back problem, and could make an appearance when the reserves face Hull City next Tuesday.

Iron boss Alan Knill revealed, the future is looking brighter for Byrne.

"Everybody else seemed to be writing him off, but we all thought Cliff could definitely come back and play a big part," said the manager.

"We're still hopeful he's going to do that.

"It's just taken so long that everybody jumps to a conclusion without really knowing the facts.

"And the facts were, he had an operation; he's four months down the line from the operation and is probably where he should be.

"Everybody wants him back a lot quicker, especially Cliff, but sometimes you just have to take your time.

"The good thing is he's back in training and now we're going to try to keep him in training.

"We're just leaving it with the player.

"It's been 10 months, which is a long time, and been a bit stop-start. He came into training, then went out of training.

"Now we've decided, stay in training and judge yourself.

"It's far easier to judge yourself amongst players to see where you are than on your own.

"He trained today and brings a lot to it. He brings a lot of enthusiasm and energy.

"He's just somebody who looks like he enjoys being on the grass.

"We're delighted to have him back.

"We've said to him, he knows his body and knows how he feels better than anybody else. We'll leave it with him.

"But we're hopeful; he's trained today and if he trains tomorrow, then maybe in the reserve game he might have 10 or 15 minutes and slowly build it up that way.

"Just being competitive every day will help his recovery.

"He's a big character and a big player for Scunthorpe United and has been over the years."

Niall Canavan too, is on the road to recovery from an ankle injury.

"Niall came back and was much better," said Knill.

"He hasn't played for such a long time, so we'll have to wait and see how he does.

"But it was good to see him back running, and obviously he wants to be fit."