Williams to feature for Under-23s

The Young Robins head to South Wales (7pm) to face Swansea City in the Professional Development League.

Williams has been gradually integrated into first-team training in recent weeks as he continues his recovery from thigh and hamstring injuries, and his appearance for the Under-23s will help bolster his fitness.

Holden said: "Knowing Joe he’ll be up early in the morning! It’s like Christmas Day for him because he’s been waiting for this moment.

“It’s important to stress that he’s still not quite ready yet [for first-team football], this will be his first 45 minutes all season, so we still have to be careful with him. Certainly, it’ll be great to see him back out there.”

Meanwhile, Fulham loanee Steven Sessegnon has returned to full training as of this morning (Monday) after recovering from a hamstring injury, while Jay Dasilva is progressing following surgery on his tibia with sessions on the AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill. Jamie Paterson (groin) has also returned to training.

Nathan Baker's return has been delayed by a thigh injury which will keep him out of action for up to four weeks.