AARON Summers has come out of retirement to join Oxford Cheetahs as injury cover for Jack Thomas.

The experienced Australian signed off his career last autumn but gets back on the bike after answering the newly-reformed club’s call.

Summers is set to make his debut in Friday’s SGB Championship visit to Glasgow Tigers.

READ MORE: Oxford Cheetahs edged out in close encounter at Redcar

The 34-year-old agreed to join Cheetahs after Jack Thomas broke both wrists riding for King’s Lynn Stars in the Premiership last Thursday.

Summers is excited to get going after ending on a high with Berwick Bandits last autumn, although he admitted it was in unfortunate circumstances.

“It’s really unfortunate what happened to Jack, and I wish him a speedy recovery,” he said.

“Speedway has been very good to me through my career, and despite announcing my retirement last year I still feel I have something to give to the sport.

“Oxford’s return this season has really captured the imagination of speedway fans locally and across the UK.

“The opportunity to fill in for Jack was offered to me and I simply had to take it.

“I was pleased with my scoring towards the end of last season and hope to carry that form forwards with the Cheetahs.

“I’d like to thank the club for this opportunity and look forward to meeting the fanbase very soon.”

Summers boasts 14 years of experience in British speedway, winning the Premier League in 2008 and the Elite League in 2010.

Coach Peter Schroeck paid tribute to Thomas and expects his replacement to be a positive addition.

He said: “We were all gutted for Jack when the news filtered through about his injury.

“He’s a great lad and is really keen to learn – I think that’s evident from what everyone has seen on track so far this season.

"We’re committed to retaining Jack’s services and are working closely with him to facilitate a speedy and safe return to racing.

“We believe Jack has a bright future in the sport, and at such a young age it would be silly to rush anything at this stage.

"We’re grateful to Aaron for stepping in, his experience and knowledge of the sport at this level can only boost the team as we prepare for an important run of fixtures.”

Cheetahs are eighth in the Championship ahead of Friday’s meeting in Glasgow, two points shy of the play-off places. They are aiming for their fifth league win of the season.