ESSEX Pirates are hoping that Alan Metcalfe can come back with a bang this weekend.

The Pirates host Worthing Thunder tonight at their Southend Leisure and Tennis Centre base before visiting London Capital on Sunday.

And head coach Tim Lewis is keeping his fingers crossed that the influential Metcalfe will be passed fit after a recent ankle injury.

“Alan has a fitness test this morning but I’m sure he will play some minutes in the games,” said Lewis.

“Just having him back dressed and on the bench will be a big boost for us because he’s a key player in what we do.

“He has great leadership skills and gels everything together. He’s passionate and a big target too so if he’s back fit then it will be great.”

Pirates have already beaten both Thunder and Capital this season.

But Lewis has warned his team not to take anything for granted when the teams meet again over the weekend.

“We have to avoid being arrogant because these are two tough games,” said Lewis.

“Worthing Thunder were missing a few key players when we beat them and they are now back so they will be stronger than before.

“London Capital are also an athletic team who on their day can really give teams a test so we are in for two very hard games “We’ve had an upbeat week in training though and now we want to take that into these games to end this losing streak we’re on.”

Lewis has also strengthened his squad by bringing in point-guard Haggai Hundert.

Hundert, who was born in Britain but has an Israeli father, has previously played in the BBL with Plymouth Raiders.

Prior to that Hundert had been playing in Slovakia and Lewis is delighted to have been able to bring him to the Pirates.

“He has leadership and composure which is what we need and he’s settled in very well,” said Lewis.

“He gets on well with the rest of the lads and will play for the first time tonight.”