DYNAMIC duo Dylan Connolly and Harry Pritchard have given City a “massive boost” by declaring themselves fit to face Exeter.

Gary Bowyer expects both back in the reckoning after sitting out the last game against Port Vale.

“They were obviously more short-term so we’re looking at getting them back this weekend,” said Bowyer.

“We were stretched the last time we played in terms of the squad and the impact the pair of them have made since they’ve been at the club has been massive.

“Dylan puts teams on the back foot with his pace and obviously I knew exactly what Harry would bring and he’s done that.

“Last time out he scored and then unfortunately had to come off but it was a great team goal and he’ll want to build on that. Having those two back gives us a massive boost and timely one at that.”

Bowyer also has optimistic news on two more of City’s midfield casualties.

“Jordan Gibson is getting there after a problem with his calf and Matty Palmer is making great progress. We’re not getting ahead of ourselves but he is slightly ahead of schedule.

“He’s been a good player for us already and there’s only more to come from him.”

Last Saturday’s postponement at Macclesfield did City a favour with resources stretched.

Bowyer admitted they had been down to 15 fit senior bodies – with Hope Akpan possibly also missing the game following the birth of his daughter Halo.

With some unexpected free time instead, Bowyer has noticed an extra bounce about the players since before another big Valley Parade test.

“The intensity of the training has been impressive and there’s a freshness about us because we had the weekend off,” added the City boss.

“We’re looking forward to a game between two good footballing teams.

“Exeter were up there all last season before dropping out the play-offs at the end and they’ve strengthened again.

“The manager has been there for over a season, which always helps, and they’ve started very well.”

The weekend home game is followed with three on the road as City face a hectic November on the motorway at Shrewsbury in the FA Cup, Colchester and Plymouth.

Bowyer said: "The preparations are already in place for the month. The players will just get on with it."