STALYBRIDGE Celtic will have to face FA Cup heroes Worcester City without Liam Dickinson in tomorrow’s Vanarama North game.
The striker is still sidelined with a hamstring injury and is a major doubt for the Christmas fixtures when Celtic play neighbours Hyde twice.
New assistant manager Mark Atkins takes his place in the dug-out alongside Keith Briggs as Stalybridge look for their first home win since September 13 and only their ninth victory of 2014.
Like all matches in the Greater Manchester area the game is in doubt because of the constant rain over the last two weeks. Check before travelling to any of the games listed on this page.
Hyde, who are enjoying their most successful run for almost two years, having achieved three wins from their last four matches, are away to Oxford City. Manager Scott McNiven says his only absentee is Adam Thurston.
There may be another appearance from new signing Erike Sousa who showed himself to be fast and enthusiastic in last weekend’s FA Trophy win over Spennymoor.
Striker Ted Cribley has extended his loan from Barrow for a second month.
In the Evo-stik NPL premier division, Curzon Ashton visit Marine hoping to put their 4-2 home defeat by Grantham behind them.
Striker Niall Cummins is available after suspension but three players are doubtful. Tom Schofield is still struggling with a calf strain picked up in training and Darren Thornton and Simon Lakeland both have the bug which has affected so many people in recent weeks.
The virus has also struck the Ashton United dressing room ahead of the home game with Belper. Paul Phillips and Gary Gee remain suspended.
In the first division north, defender Danny Caldecott could be in Droylsden’s team at Farsley if his move from New Mills is registered in time. The Bloods may also bring in another new face.
Mossley travel to Scarborough with fewer defensive options. Tom Dean has a groin strain and Ryan Barrow is unavailable because his partner gave birth on Wednesday.
Glossop North End visit Barnoldswick in the North West Counties premier division. Manager Chris Willcock has a full squad to choose from.