CURZON ASHTON could be short of firepower as they prepare to finally lock horns with Vanarama North rivals Stalybridge Celtic at Bower Fold tomorrow (Saturday).
Niall Cummins is recovering from a dental operation and Matty Warburton is doubtful with a badly bruised eye socket. Alex Brown (calf) and Liam Tomsett (hamstring) could also miss the first competitive clash between the two Tameside clubs in 28 years.
In contrast, STALYBRIDGE CELTIC manager Liam Watson could have a full squad to choose from. Defender John Shaw and striker Adam Farrell both picked up knocks in Monday’s 1-1 draw with Stockport but are expected to be available.
Danny Wisdom could feature for the first time since the FA Cup defeat at Doncaster Rovers in early November, but leading scorer Jack Higgins faces another fitness test after narrowly failing one before the County game.
Matt Chadwick and Alex Frost return to the ASHTON UNITED squad for the Evo-stik NPL clash with Buxton at Hurst Cross. The Robins — premier division club of the month for December — have no injuries or suspensions.
Goalkeeper Sam Vince could feature for HYDE UNITED in their game at Stamford in deepest Lincolnshire. Vince, who started his career with Boston United a couple of years ago, has been signed from Lincoln United. Ed Wilczynski has returned to Huddersfield at the end of his loan agreement, and Ben Jago has gone back to Tranmere Rovers.
Manager Gary Lowe has his fingers crossed that Sam Fitton will be fit to play after injury.
In the first division north, DROYLSDEN, GLOSSOP NORTH END and MOSSLEY all have full squads to choose from for their games against Trafford (away), Radcliffe Borough (away) and Ossett Town (home) respectively.