Former Worthing favourite Jon Gaines has been given a chance to help Bears' title push.

But don't expect to see him in BBL action this season.

Gaines has been training with Bears recently and coach Nick Nurse had considered signing him on a short-term deal to replace injured skipper Randy Duck.

Instead, he will remain with the club for the foreseeable future but not be signed on BBL forms.

He will be helping Nurse's squad get the toughest possible workouts in practice matches.

Nurse said: "Jon will be a training player for us for the rest of the season. He is living in Worthing and we were considering bringing him in for a few weeks in Randy's absence but there are work permit considerations which stop us doing that.

"To be honest, he is not in good shape but he is playing well. He's a quality player and he wants to stay in the game."

Nurse insists on tough practice sessions and regularly uses Brighton Cougars overseas players Steve MacQueen and Emmanuel Laroche to help provide decent opposition for his starters.

Bears go to Milton Keynes Lions in the league tonight (7.30pm) with Emiko Etete (shoulder) again sidelined.

Nurse saw Milton Keynes lose 75-67 at Leopards on Wednesday and said: "Both teams have improved a lot. It will be a difficult game, I guarantee it."