Braintree Town manager Alan Devonshire is confident that full-back Sam Habergham will be fit to return for tomorrow’s Skrill Premier game against Gateshead at the Amlin Stadium.

The former Norwich City trainee hurt his shoulder in Braintree’s 1-0 defeat at Woking two weeks ago and would not have been fit had their home fixture against Lincoln City gone ahead last weekend.

That game was postponed by a waterlogged pitch, though, so Habergham hasn’t missed any action.

However, a scan has confirmed Devonshire’s fears over Chez Isaac’s knee injury.

The Iron midfielder came off during that defeat at Woking with a knee problem and a medical has now shown that he has suffered medial ligament damage.

Devonshire said: “It’s going to be a while for Chez.

“We suspected it was the ligament and the scan has confirmed that, which means we’ll be without him for six to eight weeks.

“However, there is better news on Sam Habergham and he’s recovered from his shoulder problem so should be fine to face Gateshead tomorrow.”

Meanwhile, Devonshire said he is “getting closer” to arranging a loan deal for keeper Nathan McDonald.

The England C international hasn’t featured since October 19, with Nick Hamann being used between the sticks since and Devonshire is keen to get McDonald some loan action to keep him fresh if he is required.