NCM picks v Shrewsbury Town

Goalkeeper - It would be interesting if Kevin Pilkington was fit as to who would get the nod between he and current custodian Russell Hoult. Both have been faultless, but as Pilkington is out, the loan man has to continue ahead of rookie Tim Sandercombe.









Defence - This is Notts' best area but will be weakened most probably with doubts over Michael Johnson and Mike Edwards, aswell as cover centre-back Stephen Hunt. If everyone is fit, then there is no need for change and Adam Tann, Edwards, Johnson and Paul Mayo should start. But Johnson is most unlikely to figure, meaning NCM would choose Lee Canoville ahead of Hunt, with Canoville looking very assured as a substitute on Saturday. That would move captain Tann into centre-half with Canoville at right back.









Midfield - Richard Butcher doesn't look comfortable on the right hand side, but with Ali Gibb or Andy Parkinson not up to it there is little choice but to continue with him. It is something of an injustice given his excellent showings in the middle this term, but it sums his commitment up that he can do a job on the wing. In the centre Jay Smith is showing excellent battling qualities and should line up alongside Neil MacKenzie who has the ability to win Notts some games. Gary Silk isn't good enough, and with Gavin Strachan injured, MacKenzie should step in. On the left no competition for Wayne Corden who looks a real find.









Striker - Still a lack of goals between the front two despite the arrivals of so-called expert finishers in Danny Crow and Ryan Jarvis. They are without doubt Notts' best front two regardless, and both continue to look sharp. Perhaps a bit more luck and the goals will flow.