RAIDERS coach Paul Crarey has no hesitation in including hooker Nathan Mossop in his squad for Sunday’s massive League One clash at Keighley Cougars.

Out of action for more than 15 weeks after a bicep tear, Mossop showed he was back to his old try-scoring self in his return match with a quick-fire double against Hemel Stags last weekend.

The number nine faces a battle for his old position with Karl Ashall and Dan Abram, both of whom have impressed during Mossop’s absence.

However, Crarey appears keen to include last season’s top try-scorer, not only because of his attacking prowess but also his defensive qualities.

Looking back at the 62-4 destruction of the Stags at Craven Park on Sunday, Crarey said: “Nathan was outstanding.

“We kept it simple for him we just wanted him to pass and push through the line. He got a great try in support, not giving up on a loose ball. That’s what he’s all about. He was very tardy around the rucks.

“I thought he was electric, he pinned his ears back, he found the pass at the back end of breaks which is what we ask him to do. He destroyed the away defenders and Nathan will go to Keighley.”

Crarey added: “He was top try-scorer last year and, as a hooker, that’s outstanding. He’s come back with two at the weekend. People don’t realise how good he is, he is very fit, very good defensively. He’s a warrior and a great kid, very conscious of what he does. I have got nothing but praise for him.”

Mossop tore his bicep during Barrow’s Challenge Cup third round tie at Hunslet Hawks on February 28, having surgery two weeks later.

Following the injury the Millomite underwent a daily routine for three weeks in an oxygen chamber and later received help from club physios and strength and conditioning and rehab consultant Paddy Maher.

Crarey praised the work of the team and was also delighted by the determination shown by Mossop in his recovery process, saying: “I am just so proud of what he has done for himself to get back from a massive injury, which is unbelievable.”

Mossop, who came on as a substitute against Hemel, completed a 40-minute stint and came off unscathed.

He was pleased with his own performance, but the 28-year-old admitted to having nerves before taking to the field and said: “I was excited all the week but when Sunday came I was a little bit nervous.

“I think the biggest goal prior to game was just getting out there and getting to the end of those 80 minutes injury-free.

“I achieved that and managed to score a couple of tries off the back of some hard work of some of the other lads – poacher’s tries, I think you can call them that.”

Mossop, who injured his left arm, said he is still suffering a bit of pain but receives help from the Raiders backroom staff

“I will continue to carry on with my rehabilitation programme and obviously it is going to be a big thing for me now getting back to that match fitness and making sure I am prepared for each game,” he said.