THERE was good news for Manchester this week ahead of their RFU Senior Cup clash against Darlington Mowden Park.

Injured full-back Steve Swindells reckons he will be back in action in the New Year after a serious knee injury last season, and utility back Gareth Gerrard is recovering well from a broken leg and is due back in six to eight weeks.

Director of Rugby Alex Keay said: ''The news on these two has given us a much-needed boost this week.

''When they are available it will be like having two new players at the club.''

But for the 2pm clash at Darlington, Manchester will be without player-coach Paul Manley, a second row, who has had an operation on his elbow following an injury against Moseley two weeks ago.

Manchester will also be without Danny Collins, who will be out of action for up to eight weeks with a knee injury.

Although Darlington are down in National Division Three North, Keay knows they are a tough side.

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