SMALL forward Andrew Bachman is poised to return to training for Worcester Wolves three weeks ahead of schedule.

The 6ft 6in American has been battling back from a torn calf muscle he suffered in a practice session last month.

The injury looked set to rule the 24-year-old out for the rest of the regular season with head coach Paul James hoping to get him back in time for the play-offs.

But Bachman has regained strength in his calf and is set to hit the practice courts this week.

“We are looking forward to welcoming Andrew back to training,” James said.

“His return is probably two or three weeks ahead of when we expected so his recovery has been very good.

“When he is back to training we will see where he is because there is a difference between doing work in the gym and regaining strength in the calf to then running, jumping, sprinting and making quick movements.”

Despite losing Bachman Wolves have extended their winning streak to seven to move up to fifth in the British Basketball League.

They also bolstered their side with the signing of Trey Zeigler who was brought in to fill Bachman’s shoes.

Although pleased with Bachman’s progress James said he would look to “ease him back in gently” and admitted he was reluctant to make changes to his in-form side.

“We are playing really well,” James said.

“Our rotation has been good, the players know where they need to be, what court time they are going to get and their role within the team.

“Andrew still needs to get up to speed fitness-wise but once he is back we need to look at how we fit him into the scheme of things.

“As they say, 'If it ain’t broke don’t fix it’, so that is something we are going to have to manage carefully as coaches.”

Wolves claimed back-to-back victories last weekend as they defeated leaders Leicester Riders 93-91 before an overtime 103-91 win at Cheshire Phoenix.

Despite the physical demands of both games James said his players remained in top condition thanks to the support of the medical and strength and conditioning team.

“It has been quite tough but we have got a great team around us,” James added.

“Marc Scriven and his strength and conditioning team with Chris Holland and Darren Cooper have done a great job.

“The sports therapy team are keeping the guys pieced together and there are a lot of people involved in making sure the team are as fit as they possibly can be ready to play a game so it is a whole team effort.

“We would not be where we are without all that support team so they deserve a lot of credit as well.”

Wolves take on high-flying Newcastle Eagles at the University of Worcester Arena on Friday (7.30pm) before travelling to Scotland to face Glasgow Rocks on Sunday (5pm).