Mansfield Town

Our boss will look to bring in a goalkeeper on an emergency loan before this weekend's match at home to league leaders Rochdale.

Speaking this evening to mansfieldtown.net, the manager said:  "With Alan Marriott ruled out and Ian Deakin looking highly unlikely, we will look to bring in a new 'keeper on an emergency loan before the weekend'"

Earlier today we reported that Alan Marriott, who has been an almost ever-present for us this term, dislocated his finger during a midweek training session and is doubtful to be fit in time for Saturday’s match.

Despite having featured in last night’s reserve team victory over Hartlepool United, Deakin, our second-choice shot-stopper, has also been struggling with a quad problem in recent weeks.

Boss Paul Cox said earlier: “[Alan’s] finger popped out on Tuesday at training. We thought it was not just a dislocation, but a fracture as well, but he’s been x-rayed and there’s no fracture.”

He continued: “As a goalkeeper when you make a mistake there is no hiding place. ‘Maz’ puts a lot of pressure on himself to set standards and he’s been excellent this season.

“In some of the games of late, he’s pulled off good saves at vital times, but that’s his job. He’s a good professional, he’s got high standards and I think he’s had a good season this year.”

Paul Cox's full interview from today's press meeting can be viewed on Stags Player.