LEICESTER have been forced into a change of plans ahead of their KO Cup opener against Belle Vue next Monday (April 6).
Watling JCB Lions’ Rising Star Dan Gilkes will not be able to take his place at this stage, as he is still struggling with knee issues.
Gilkes, who missed the bulk of the 2025 season after suffering the injury in an innocuous spill at Poole, took the decision after press and practice last Thursday.
Joe Thompson has agreed to return to the team on an initial 28-day arrangement, which will take in the four KO Cup matches home and away against the Aces and Sheffield.
Manager Stewart Dickson said: “We’re all absolutely gutted for Dan, especially after the hard work he’s put in to get back to racing.
“But at the same time we appreciate his honesty in being clear with ourselves and also Poole that he isn’t ready at the moment.
“We’ve brought in Joe for an initial 28 days, and we’ll reassess the position before our league matches when we should know more about Dan’s situation.
“We’d like to welcome Joe back. He will now be one of the more experienced Rising Stars in the league, and I’m sure it will also help him to have his brother in the same team.”
Thompson said: “Firstly, I want to wish Dan Gilkes all the very best and a speedy recovery.
“I’m delighted to be joining Leicester on a temporary basis. It’s a great opportunity for me to get some extra track time under my belt, and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in.
“I know the management and the team well. I’m hopeful we can get off to a strong start.”
The Watling JCB Lions kick off their season at Belle Vue on Easter Monday (April 6) at midday, with the return at the Hydroscand Arena, Beaumont Park at 7.30pm that evening.
