Ben Roberts is on course to return in goal for Albion against Oldham at Withdean on Saturday.

The former Charlton keeper made his comeback from a two-match absence with knee trouble in the first half of a 2-1 friendly defeat against Leyton Orient at Brisbane Road on Wednesday.

Michel Kuipers, Roberts' rival for the No. 1 spot, returned in the second half from injuries sustained in a car crash in November.

Manager Mark McGhee, who watched the match, revealed: "We will see how they respond in training today and tomorrow, but I think Ben is further ahead than Michel.

"Michel has been out for longer and he has been through a greater trauma.

"I saw him briefly afterwards and he gave me a nod and a wink as if he had enjoyed it. It will have done him a power of good to be playing again."

McGhee also has youngster Ross Flitney, re-signed on loan from Fulham until January 24 when Roberts hurt himself in training.

Flitney played in the Christmas games against Wycombe Wanderers and Swindon.

Charlie Oatway continued his recovery from back surgery yesterday by playing his first full game since September.

He is likely to be on the bench for the third game running against Oldham, with Zesh Rehman favourite to replace the suspended Richard Carpenter in the centre of the park.

McGhee said: "Charlie came through well. He looked as if he needed the game. He has to be up to match pace to get his tackles in and get close to people."

Nathan Jones, who begins a four-match ban after Saturday, is doubtful after bruising a medial knee ligament in training.

John Piercy has recovered from hamstring trouble and is in line to replace Welshman Jones on the left side of midfield.

Roberts was beaten twice early on yesterday, including an own goal from a corner on his return to Brisbane Road by former Leyton Orient loanee Dean Hammond.

Young striker Dan Beck replied for Albion. McGhee said: "We were sloppy early on, but otherwise it was a good exercise."

Albion under-21s play Bognor in a friendly at Nyewood Lane on Saturday morning (11am).