Town manager Joe Royle says that Nabil Abidallah can follow the example of Thomas Gaardsøe and push his way into the first team. Last week Royle promoted the Dutchman back to first team training after some while with the reserves.

Royle says of the former Ajax trainee: "He's 20 now and it's time for him to progress. He's got great ability and we want to bring it out more and more.

"Thomas has risen to the challenge and I'm looking for Nabil to do the same. The chance is there for him as it is for others at the club."

Abidallah made two sub appearances for the first team back in 2000/01 in the matches against Bradford and Everton but latterly has been limited to reserve action.

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