Workington Reds captain Gari Rowntree is hoping that he can help get his side get out of their current predicament when he returns to the pitch.

The 29-year-old left back is due to come back from a knee injury early next month and his rehabilitation is ongoing.

Rowntree has yet to play this season with his last appearance coming in April in the 1-0 away win at Matlock.

Reds have endured a difficult start to the season and the midweek draw against Frickley stretched their winless run to six games.

Rowntree said: "I'm desperate to get back playing as anyone is when they've been injured.

"It's frustrating, but you can't rush these things because that's when you get niggles.

"I'm not sure if I will, but I would love to make a difference and add some more experience if I'm fit and ready."

As part of his recovery, the defender has been running and cycling as he aims to get back to full fitness.

Rowntree struggled with injuries last season, but is determined to stay fit this time around.

Reds are gearing up for a busy fortnight with Shildon up next in the FA Cup on Saturday and midweek games against Marine and Skelmersdale either side of a home match with Grantham.

Rowntree added: "I'm sure the lads will bounce back. Hopefully we can get a good cup run together which will give us confidence.

"The start to the season has been frustrating, but more for the lads that are playing.

"We started last season poorly too. I would love to be injury-free and I'll still be doing my rehab when I'm playing."