GUTSY defender Richard Cooper began a stunning comeback today to help to offset any York City gloom surrounding the loss of striker Peter Duffield for the rest of the season.

Cooper suffered a broken leg, as well as a deep gash, after Nicky Mohan's horror tackle in the 2-1 victory over Hull City five weeks ago.

But the combative midfielder started light training at Bootham Crescent for the first time today with a personal goal of returning to action - whether in the first team or reserves - by the time the season ends.

"It doesn't feel too bad," Cooper told the Evening Press. "I had an X-ray on Wednesday and it has healed.

"I will start training again today with a bit of running and that, but I can't see it being anything too strenuous.

"I might be able to get a game in before the end of the season, that's my aim. I'm not sure if it will be first team or reserves, I'm just keen to play.

"It has been frustrating being on the sidelines, especially as the team are doing quite well.

"It is nice to see the lads playing well and I'd liked to be a part of it."

Cooper, 22, was buoyed along the road to recovery by the rest of the squad, including the helpful advice of the experiemced Duffield.

But while Cooper prepares to return to training, Duffield faces another spell out with the third break to his right leg - albeit a small stress fracture - in 18 months.

"When I did my leg, Duffs said that I'd be all right and that when it healed it would be stronger," said the former Nottingham Forest youngster.

"I spoke to him on Thursday and I think he is strong enough mentally to get through it.

"I don't think there is much I can say to him in advice, he has done it three times now so knows exactly what it takes to get back.

"It is sad because he was playing well.

"The boss switched to three up front and this has worked well for the team and has been positive, but I think it suited Duffs."

Despite his injury, Cooper has been a regular to Bootham Crescent as York have climbed the table, but he won't be making the long trip south tomorrow to Plymouth.

"I've watched all the home games since I did my leg, but I haven't made the away ones unfortunately," he added.

"I won't be there either tomorrow, but I would have loved to have played.

"Plymouth are a top side and as a player you always like to test yourself against the teams at the top."

Updated: 11:43 Monday, March 04, 2002