KRYSTIAN Pearce is back at Notts County – and looks to have one last chance to prove himself to Magpies' boss Keith Curle.
The former England youth international defender, 22, has returned to Meadow Lane after a three-month loan spell at League Two Barnet, where he started 17 league games.
It was not that long ago that Pearce was regarded as one of the Magpies' most promising young players alongside star midfielder Alan Judge.
But he has not lived up to the hype under Curle and has started just three league games since he took charge at Meadow Lane back in February.
He did not figure at all at the start of this season, before leaving for Barnet in mid-September.
Curle will now closely monitor the young centre-back before the transfer window reopens in January.
"Krystian is back in training with us now," confirmed Curle.
"He enjoyed his stint down there at Barnet, playing lots of games for them, which is exactly what he needed because he wasn't playing here.
"We will have a look at what condition he is in.
"He's got the opportunity now. He's up to match speed and up to match fitness."
Pearce could even get his chance to try to impress Curle against Leyton Orient in League One at Meadow Lane on Saturday, because Dean Leacock is a doubt with a hamstring injury and Damion Stewart is suspended, after being sent off in the Magpies' midweek FA Cup defeat against Rotherham United.
"We've seen a couple of DVDs of the games he (Pearce) has played in for Barnet," added Curle.
"They have been pleased with him. He's done exactly what he needed to do."
