FOREST Green captain David Pipe is hoping to return to training after being laid low with pneumonia.

Rugged right-back Pipe has not featured for Rovers since the home defeat against Kidderminster Harriers on Boxing Day, but is due to return to training on Tuesday and be fit for the trip to Braintree on Saturday.

The Welshman has had a wretched time with illness and had previously contracted the norovirus.

Pipe said: “I probably rushed back too soon from that and I knew something wasn’t right when I started to cough up blood and the doctor diagnosed acute pneumonia.

“I am awaiting results of a chest x-ray, but I feel okay in myself and aim to be fit for Saturday.”

Pipe is set to replace Dale Bennett after his red card at Ebbsfleet United in the FA Trophy and subsequent four-game ban.