Team news…vs. Rushden

Last updated : 18 February 2005 By Richard Brown

With no fewer than five injury doubts, and a further three certainties to miss out, Ian Richardson goes into the squad – initially with only 21 full-time members – with just 14 of contracted to the club being completely match fit.

However of those five possibilities to miss tomorrow’s match with 22nd placed Rushden – now, of course, just eight points behind the Magpies in League Two – not a single player took part in the Magpies’ training program yesterday.

Elliot: Set to debut?
Striker, Mark Stallard – who was taken off with a knee injury on Tuesday night – looks the more unlikely a player to turn out for the Magpies tomorrow, a huge blow considering the performances he has enjoyed since his return.

Defenders Rob Ullathorne (groin) and Kelvin Wilson (knee) – both integral members of the Magpies’ squad of late – are, however, expected to play whilst ‘keeper Saul Deeney, presently suffering from a damaged ankle after a someone dubious challenge on Tuesday night, is expected to pull through.

In reserve, however, in Charlton Athletic ‘keeper, Rob Elliot. The 19-year old goalkeeper, currently with the Magpies on a one month loan from the Valley, could well deputise for the Irish under-21 goalkeeper, Deeney after having been given a vote of confidence from manager, Richardson.

Another of those injured players, namely David Pipe, is all set to play through the pain barrier after having taken out special ‘fittings’ in order to allow him to take part.

The Welsh under-21 captain, who netted only his second goal for the club last weekend, is to sport a specially made cast to protect a broken bone in his hand sustained against the Cobblers just three days ago

Meanwhile, Ian Richardson (knee), Mike Edwards (knee) and Steve Scoffham (broken leg) are all certain to miss out.

Be sure to stick with NCM over the weekend for comprehensive match reports and, of course, all the action and reaction from tomorrow’s relegation ‘six pointer’.