Clark Keltie's career blossomed into life at the end of 2005 and Mark Proctor has lavished praise on the Darlington midfielder for the impact he has made since returning from an injury-ravaged year.

Twelve months ago the 22-year-old was facing an uncertain future after suffering a cruciate knee ligament injury in training that kept him out for most of the calender year.

On his return at the start of the season the unfortunate Keltie suffered an ankle injury which postponed the Tynesider's comeback until November, when he received an immediate suspension after being sent off against Wycombe Wanderers.

Since then Keltie has gone from strength to strength. Quakers have lost only one of the seven games he has played and his contribution has not gone unnoticed at the 96.6TFM Darlington Arena, where he signed a new one-month contract last week.

Having recaptured the form he showed when he first broke into the team as a teenager under Mick Tait in 2002, Keltie expects to agree a longer deal at the end of this month, and Proctor said: "Clark has been our best player in the last three of four games.

"He was a model professional during his rehabilitation.

"He has been meticulous in his fitness work and now he is reaping his reward by having some excellent games for us.

"We have given him a chance, as we have done to every player in the squad, and Clark has certainly taken that opportunity so he deserves some credit.

"It might be a team game but it is always up to the individual to do their own bit for the team, to make their own contribution."

Keltie made his 101st career appearance in Monday's win over Torquay United, assisting two of Quakers' goals. He also played a part in the dramatic equaliser at Lincoln City 48 hours earlier.

Neil Maddison, Darlington's reserve team manager, also recently praised Keltie for his commitment to returning from injury and Proctor says almost a year out is perhaps reflected in Keltie's triumphant return.

He said: "When you have a long-term injury you sit on the sidelines, reflect on things and analyse things differently.

"When you realise that your career could be taken away from you, you start to cherish what you have, so Clark has come back doubly determined to have a really good career. He has done exceptionally well and everyone at the club is really pleased for him."

Darlington's reserves are at home to Hartlepool on Monday (2pm). Admission is £3 and £1, free for season ticket holders.

Read more about the Quakers here.