WORKINGTON Reds midfielder Rob Wilson hopes his return to first-team action will be victorious as his side travel to Matlock this afternoon.

The former Kendal Town man has spent the last few weeks on the sidelines after injuring his ankle.

Wilson then hurt his groin while striking a ball in training two weeks ago which has extended his time on the treatment table.

But Wilson is in the frame to play today and his recovery eases Derek Townsley’s midfield shortage.

Townsley has been forced to field a makeshift midfield recently with defender Josh Calvert reverting to a central midfield role. Long-term absentees Phil McLuckie and James Earl both remain on the treatment table and will miss this afternoon’s clash.

Wilson made his comeback in midweek against AFC Fylde in a reserve match and played 45 minutes in a 3-1 win.

Wilson said: “It’s pleasing because I’ve not played for five weeks and I’m trying to get back to where I was and be fit for today.

“Derek Townsley didn’t put me in the squad because he wanted me to play today.

“Hopefully I can be a part of these last seven games.”

Defender Anthony Wright will miss the match with a groin injury and Kingsley Grandison suffered a knock in the AFC Fylde match in midweek is also unavailable.

Reds face the Derbyshire twice this month with the return fixture set to take place at Borough Park on Tuesday, April 19.

Matlock are seven points clear of the drop zone, but have not won in their last seven games

Wilson added: “It’s important that we pick up three points. a few weeks ago we were second, but now teams have caught up.”

Kick off at Causeway Lane is at 3pm.