LIGHT AT THE END OF TUNNEL FOR POWELL

Jack Powell says he is starting to see ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ in his recovery from a long-term injury.

The midfielder suffered knee ligament damage in late October and underwent surgery a few weeks later.

Since then, the 30-year-old has been working hard on rehabilitation and has recently returned to the training pitch for light jogging and striking balls.

Now Powell is looking forward to a return in the early part of 2024/25.

He said: “It’s been tough but I’m starting to see light at the end of the tunnel now.

“There’s still a long way to go but being able to run again is refreshing, mentally. I’m getting closer and closer to a return, which is exciting. But there will still be more hurdles to overcome.

“It’s difficult to put an exact date on my return but I’d like to think it will be as close to the start of the new season as possible.

“You have to account for the fact it could be slightly longer, though. I have to make sure I take the right steps now so when I come back, I’m back for good.”

Powell quickly won over Alex fans with his creative and classy displays in the early part of last term.

After joining from Crawley in the summer, he registered four assists and one goal in 17 appearances.

In recent months, the dad-of-three travelled with the squad on away trips and used the time to support his teammates.

Powell added: “One of the big things I’ve learned is how different people react to different things.

“I spent a lot of time speaking to people, encouraging them, and offering advice.

“You learn what gets the best out of people. It’s easier to see that when you’re not on the pitch – when you are playing, emotion can get in the way. Hopefully, that will stand us in good stead next year.”