PLYMOUTH Albion have recalled teenage back Tom Putt from a loan spell at Newton Abbot.
The 18-year-old had joined the National Three South West side to regain some match fitness after nearly three months out injured.
Putt was Albion’s top points scorer before suffering a troublesome foot problem in November. His kicking ratio is more than 76 per cent.
“Tom has been recalled,” said Albion’s director of rugby Dawe. “He’s had a bit of time at Newton Abbot and played for the Warriors (Albion’s development team) last week so he is back up to speed and ready to challenge for the first team again.”
Putt could be needed with Albion’s back options hit by Ethan Ford’s return to Australia and Jake Murphy’s broken hand. Fly-half Elliot Bale is also still on the sidelines after having an operation on his knee last month and may not be fit until the final couple of games of the season.
Seti Raumakita may also be needed by the Royal Navy, although Albion are hoping he will be available for this weekend’s trip to Ampthill.
Albion could also be struggling for hooking cover this weekend.
Rupert Freestone has been called up into the England Students squad, James Penman has been struggling with injury and Albion have revealed that Dean Brooker is flying out to New Zealand on Thursday to spend the summer playing over there.
Brooker’s trip was sorted out before Albion realised Freestone could be away and Penman was injured.
However, Sam Matavesi could offer cover there if needed, although Albion are optimistic Penman will be fit.
Brooker, who combines his rugby with a full-time job, is going to New Zealand to try and gain some game-time after making just one single replacement appearance this season, although he has been on the bench eight times.
“We suggested to Dean that he goes and plays some rugby in the Southern Hemisphere this summer to aid his game,” said Albion’s director of rugby Graham Dawe.
“He’s a talent footballer, who is strong and physical, but he needs game-time and he needs experience, so he’s going to go to New Zealand.”
Dawe added: “He has been one of the most important members of our squad because you have to have those people on the bench or back-up. He’s good because he can play loose-head and hooker and he’s always there ready to step up. He’s been great to have around the club.
“He has been such an important player for us and he’s got massive future ahead of him.”
Dawe has encouraged a number of young players over the years to spend a summer in the Southern Hemisphere gaining experience. Among those who did were David Morton, Nigel Cane and Chris Lowrie.