Central defender Tommy Smith is using an anti-gravity treadmill developed by NASA as he continues his recovery from a broken ankle. Smith, who made his first team debut on the opening day of the season, is unlikely to play again this season after sustaining the break in August.

Physio Matt Byard told the club site: "Tommy has been to a clinic in London to use the treadmill, which is a new product that has come in from the United States.

"It was originally used by NASA and is currently being used at AC Milan and Manchester City. Kieron Dyer has also used it as he recovers from injury.

"It's primarily for endurance athletes, to reduce the risk of impact related injuries and to facilitate training and conditioning. A pressure system seals around Tommy's waist, reducing body weight and subsequently impact.

"There is less resistance and that allows him to increase his workload, but with minimal stress on his joints."

In January Smith, 18, signed a new deal aimed at keeping him at Town until 2012.

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