CHRIS Turner has targeted the Boxing Day clash at Morecambe for his comeback.

The wideman damaged his ligaments in mid-October against Bournemouth and is praying they heal in the next few weeks to avoid an operation. And, if so, the 19-year-old hopes he can build on his one goal and seal a regular place in the team this season.

"I am just so frustrated," said Turner, who was at Burnley’s Centre of Excellence before switching to Stanley..

"I did it at Bournemouth and it was just a normal tackle but a big lump came up on my shin. I didn’t think much about it but I had also gone over on my ankle.

"I did think it was just a sprained ankle and I probably made it worse by training on it. But then I knew it wasn’t right and have had two scans.

"They said I have torn my ankle ligaments and impinged the back of my tendon which has flared up.

"I thought I might need an operation and they have said that, if the ligament doesn’t heal over the next few weeks, I could need one. I am praying I come through though and want to be back for the Boxing Day match."

Turner had just reclaimed his place in the first team and had scored his first ever league goal against Cheltenham.

"That’s what made it worse really. I am so annoyed because I had got myself back in the side, had scored the goal and now, to be injured, has dented my confidence a bit.

"But the gaffer has told me to keep myself fit and keep ticking over so I am ready to come back straight away."

It means he is able to join in with the aqua aerobics, pilates and body pump the players have been doing as John Coleman protects his small squad from injuries.

"I can do all that which is good as it means I can train with the lads some of the time as all I can’t do is put too much weight on it. I do have a brace to wear on my foot and I also had to have injections which I hated as I almost fainted with the needle!

"But my aim is Morecambe and I am hoping I can make it."