HOT-SHOT Hugh Robertson yesterday returned to training - after fears over his future were allayed, writes Nick Loughlin.

The Hartlepool left back has been out of action since August 28 after suffering a foot injury.

Pool boss Neale Cooper admitted he wondered if the 29-year-old, with two spectacular trademark free-kick goals to his name this season, would ever return.

But Robertson sailed through his first training session yesterday and may take some part in tomorrow's reserve game with Hull City at Bedford Terrace.

"It's a big relief to us all to have Hugh back,'' said Cooper. "There were times when I really wondered if he would be back at all.''

Robertson tried rest, an operation and an injection to try to find a cure.

Cooper admitted: "I was worried. We tried everything with him but his foot still seemed to be giving him pain.

"John Murry (physio) has been mobilising his leg and he has really looked a lot better. He is back in training and we will see how he does for the rest of the week.

"We have missed his deliveries from set plays and corners - as well as his free kicks, of course - and it will be good to have him back."

Robertson confessed: "I was panicking about the injury. Even after an operation I was still in a lot of pain.''

With Matty Robson enjoying arguably his best display of the season in the 3-0 FA Cup win over Lincoln City, Robertson is unlikely to be involved in Saturday's trip to Sheffield Wednesday.

Read more about Hartlepool here.