Northampton boosted by Eaves' early return

Tom Eaves joined Northampton in the summer from Rotherham United

Northampton striker Tom Eaves ruled out "cleaning up the streets of Gotham" despite being on the receiving end of Batman jokes as he returned to action for Town following a serious facial injury.

Eaves had to wear a protective mask when he was sent on as a 74th-minute substitute in Saturday's 0-0 draw with Cambridge United.

He had missed the previous five games after breaking his nose and fracturing his cheekbone and eye socket against Lincoln City last month.

"I went to see a consultant last week and he CT-scanned it. It showed significant healing and our medical department kindly allowed me to get this very expensive carbon fibre mask, (but) if I hear Batman one more time, honestly…," Eaves told BBC Radio Northampton.

"We’re going to give it a month to six weeks and see how it is. You do forget about it when you’re playing but it kind of impairs your vision on the pitch so it’s not the most practical thing (to wear).

"As soon as I can, I’ll certainly have it off."

The 32-year-old marked his Cobblers debut with a goal against Bolton at the beginning of October, but has yet to add to that in six appearances since.

His early return, though, was a boost for boss Jon Brady, who has had to contend with significant injury problems this season.

Northampton are 16th in the table, but only three points clear of the relegation places, ahead of Tuesday's game at Wigan Athletic and a run of six in December - including a trip to Eaves' previous club Rotherham United.

Tom Eaves had to go off against Lincoln just 13 minutes after coming on as a substitute

Asked whether he had any lingering concerns when he was sent on against Cambridge, Eaves said "Psychologically, it’s important (that) the first 50-50 you go and win it. I did and then I was at ease and felt fine.

"I’m just happy to be back and get some minutes on the pitch. I’m a bit gutted I couldn't contribute with a goal or an assist but hopefully there’ll be plenty of opportunities on Tuesday.

"It's another tough test, a long journey and it’s the busiest time of the year for us around Christmas, flooded with games."