TOWERING centre Robert Thurman could miss Worcester Wolves’ away-day double header against Leeds Force and London Lions with an ankle injury.

The 6ft 10ins American suffered the problem in training and head coach Paul James is not overly hopeful of him being involved at Leeds tonight (7.30pm) or in the capital on Sunday (4pm).

It is not the first time Thurman has been sidelined with an ankle issue after he missed matches in December and January.

It could see an increased workload for Dejan Radojevic under the basket but Wolves also have the option of utilising the skills of Robertas Bitinas.

Wolves chief James said: “Unfortunately, Robert tweaked an ankle in training on Monday so that’s a concern. He’s had this continual ankle problem it seems throughout the season at crucial stages. He’ll have a fitness test but he’s looking doubtful for this weekend.

“But we have won games without him, we went through a spell when he was out for a while and we came together as a unit.”

He added: “We’ve got Dejan who can go in there and we’ve got Robertas as well in the team so we will be a little bit smaller. Hopefully, it will be Dejan’s opportunity to go out there and get some considerable minutes to show what he can do.

“With all the new things we’re doing and adjustments we’re going to have to make, hopefully it will be good enough.”

Wolves have not played since recording their third home victory in a row by defeating Durham Wildcats 89-73 a fortnight ago.

Fourteen of Worcester’s 23 league victories have come at the University Arena but five of their six defeats have come on on their travels.

James is not expecting things to be any easier against Leeds or London, when Wolves will come up against former favourite Zaire Taylor.

“I think we’ve struggled on the road a bit this season,” the Worcester head coach said.

“Although Leeds are low in the league, they are very competitive and playing some good defence right now.

“They’re perhaps struggling to score but it’s a tough test for us, especially coming off a weekend without any games.

He continued: “London are going to be one of the dark horses for the play-offs. They haven’t reached the heights that I think they would have expected this season given the talent they have on the team.”