SHEFFIELD are set to welcome back highly-rated try-scorer Andy Poynter for tonight's crucial clash with York City Knights (ko 8pm).

The full-back's absence has corresponded with the Eagles' three-match losing streak but he is likely to retake the number one jersey tonight, with Greg Hurst, who has now overtaken Poynter as the club's top try-scorer in the league, returning to the wing.

Coach Mark Aston said: "He (Poynter) is a quality player. We've missed him with the ball in his hands and without the ball in his hands. "

Winger Bright Sodje could miss his second game on the trot with a bad hand cut and the absence of the 38-year-old veteran would severely reduce the average age of the Eagles' young back line, Poynter otherwise being the oldest at 25.

The Eagles will also be without prop Jack Howieson, who is in the midst of a four-game ban for his misdemeanour during their big win over Hunslet - Sheffield's last victory - on June 13, and former York star Richard Goddard, who is out for the season with a torn Achilles tendon.

The Knights have already completed the double over Sheffield this season - winning 32-24 away in the Challenge Cup and 34-16 at home in the third game of the League season.

Updated: 10:56 Friday, July 23, 2004