Swindon striker Harry Smith is back in training after being out with a ‘serious illness’, Mark Kennedy has confirmed.

The manager mentioned on Thursday last week that he was back and had been in the building for the first time since being ill.

The ex-Sutton striker has not featured since the 1-1 draw against Barrow on the 7th of September but has been recovering well and could return after a month’s absence.

“Harry’s doing well in training so we are really pleased to have him back with us.

“It feels like he’s been missing for a long time for multiple reasons, so it’s great to see him back with us.

“He had a very serious illness, he lost a lot of weight and was out for a long time and unfortunately quite a few of our lads have had illnesses and in a really bizarre way, they’ve all lost considerable amounts of weight.”

The Town boss confirmed that he had lost seven kilograms whilst being out but the tall striker looks to be in good shape following his recovery.

“Harry, particularly [lost weight] more than others but it’s good to see him back and he looks fit and healthy which is the most important bit.”

Kennedy has missed not having Smith back in the fold, as previous games where the Robins have failed to win could have been completely different if the forward was fit playing in those games.

Town are behind table-toppers Port Vale by the smallest of margins with the number of accurate crosses per game so the boss has not enjoyed not being able to utilise his ability.

Smith has missed seven games in all competitions due to suspension and illness and the Irish manager discussed that previous results might have changed if he was in the squad.

“I think Harry missing was a big, big problem. We are number one or two in the league for crosses and successful crossing and we’re missing someone who is six foot four and thrives on crosses.

“I think he was a good source in those games, but we have to find other ways to score goals.”

Smith returning would benefit the attacking options at Kennedy’s disposal following both strikers Kabongo Tshimanga and Aaron Drinan not making an appearance in the squad against Cheltenham on Saturday last week.