The 29-year-old is yet to play a game so far this NBL campaign but participated in his first full training session with the squad since having surgery on a meniscus tear in October.

He was scheduled to return from the injury on December 9 against Cairns Taipans at home, but could make his comeback against United if he progresses through a full week of training unscathed.

The Hawks have two more sessions this week before their meeting with the league leaders.

Martin was working hard to be fit for the marquee clash at WIN Entertainment Centre.

“Game fitness is hard to replicate because obviously the speed of the game is quick so I am just trying to get cardio back this week and build into Thursday,” he said.

“I’ll see if the stars align for it.

“I would like to play Thursday but I don’t know with the training load and how my knee will react to it.

“It has been a considerable time off.”

Martin’s return would be a timely one for the Hawks after it was announced they had lost guard Tyson Demos for the remainder of the season with a knee injury on Monday.

Both players were already absent from Illawarra’s pair of home victories over Sydney and Townsville in round nine.

That winning form has allowed Martin to take his time recovering. 

“With the guys playing so well right now it is not a big pressure for me to come back before I am 100% ready because that is only to hurt the team,” Martin said.

“It is hard sitting on the sidelines so I want get back as soon as I can.”

Cody Ellis will look to make his return from foot problem against Melbourne. 

AJ Ogilvy is also on track to play the match despite going off early in the third quarter of Illawarra’s 38 point demolition of the Crocodiles on Saturday night.

Their additions could be crucial against the table toppers. United started the season on a 9-0 run and now lead the league with a 10-3 record.

“”They have got a good squad that can really shoot the ball so it is no surprise that they started off the season that way,” Martin said.

“In that good form, everyone was pretty much fully healthy but then they had some niggling injuries.

“Hakim Warrick went down but he is back with them now.

“They will be looking to get on a hot streak again now.”

Melbourne hold a 1-0 lead in the series after defeating Illawarra 93-81 on their home floor in round one.