GARY Bowyer raved about the returning Jake Reeves – and then urged caution with the midfielder.

Reeves, playing his first game for 22 months, came through 62 minutes in City’s 2-1 loss to Rochdale at Valley Parade in the Leasing.com Trophy.

“He was outstanding, it was a marvellous display,” said boss Bowyer.

“I’m delighted we haven’t got a game at the weekend because people will get over-excited.

“He had 45 minutes last week, 60 this week on a heavy pitch, by the way.

“We’ll see how he recovers from that and just go steady with him.

“But the actual performance was wonderful – his know-how, experience and quality.

“The free-kick he put in for the first goal was awesome and then hitting the bar himself.

“Where am I going to find a player of that quality in the market? He would cost too much money."

Bowyer also hit out at some of the stories that have appeared on social media during Reeves' lengthy absence.

"Somebody was telling me about possible rumours that were flying around in the time he'd been out injured. They are absolute nonsense.

"He's been through the mill in terms of the injury and setbacks but he's really looking after himself."