Joel Tabiner and Zac Williams are expected to return to full training next week.

Midfielder Tabiner, who has been missing with an ankle injury since October, and defender Williams, who is yet to play in 2024 after suffering two ankle injuries, are making good progress.

More good news is that keeper Tom Booth is back in training after suffering a collapsed lung at Tranmere on February 3, and midfielder Conor Thomas (calves) is in good shape after sitting out of the midweek win at Stockport.

But striker Christopher Long has been ruled out for five weeks after injuring his quad muscle in training.

Midfielder Matus Holicek (foot) is being assessed after sustaining a knock at Edgeley Park on Tuesday.

Assistant Manager Ryan Dicker said: “Zac Williams – it's really positive news. He should be back with us training next week and available by March 2.

“Joel Tabiner is working with (Head of Sports Science) Joe Phillips and will hopefully be back with the full group next Thursday. If all goes to plan, he could be in the squad for Notts County away.

“Tom Booth is back with us and he will be available for selection on Saturday. When we heard the extent of the injury after the Tranmere game, I was thinking he could be out for the season but I’m delighted that he is okay now. He will be competing with Harvey (Davies) and Westy (Keiren Westwood) for his place.

“Conor Thomas’s problem is minimal and we expect him to be available for Saturday.”

He added: “Chris Long had a scan and we think it is going to be about five weeks out. Unfortunately, he aggravated his quad muscle again.

“Matus picked up a niggle in his foot on Tuesday night and he is being assessed. Hopefully, it’s nothing major and he will be available for the weekend.”

Charlie Finney (calves) is closing in on a return, while Jack Powell (knee) and Owen Lunt (back) remain sidelined for the foreseeable future.