SAMMY IGOE has endured a worrying start to Town's pre-season campaign after being hospitalised over fears of a blood clot.

The 28-year-old midfielder spent Sunday night under observation after experiencing breathing difficulties and numerous tests have been carried out.

Although the former Reading man has now been allowed home after doctors ruled out a clot he will still be closely monitored.

He has received treatment to thin his blood and it is not yet clear when he will return to training.

A family member said: "Sammy wasn't feeling right and was struggling to get his breath.

"At first we thought it might be an after-effect of the knock he took in the game at Brighton in May.

"He's had all sorts of tests done in hospital but it's good that he's now been allowed home.

"A scan has shown that it isn't a blood clot.

"He wouldn't have been happy staying in there for too long.

"It might be a couple of days before he can think about training again.

"Since coming home though he hasn't complained about not being able to breathe properly so hopefully that's a good sign."

Manager Andy King, who welcomed his players back for the start of pre-season training yesterday, is keen for Igoe to bounce back to health as quickly as possible.

He said: "Everyone's hoping it's not serious."

There is happier news for Igoe's south coast driving companion, Brian Howard.

After a week which saw the departures announced of Tommy Mooney, Mark Devlin and Malcolm Crosby respectively, Howard started a fresh week by committing himself to a new deal in Wiltshire.

Along with Stefani Miglioranzi, the 21-year-old signed his new contract at the County Ground yesterday.

He said: "I'm delighted it's all sorted at last.

"I'm convinced I've agreed another deal with a club which is on its way up.

"A few mates of mine said they'd seen messages on websites from Swindon fans who seemed convinced that I'd be leaving.

"That was never going to be the case.

"I've never gone into a season feeling more confident.

"There are a lot of young lads at this club who are looking to build on last year and improve, including myself.

"It's great to be back in training and I'm looking forward to the matches starting."