Alan Marriott could be available for selection within the next few weeks, manager Paul Cox revealed today.
The 34-year-old goalkeeper has been sidelined for two months following an innocuous training ground collision, causing a dislocated shoulder.
But Marriott has surprised most by making a quick recovery to resume training recently.
In his weekly press meeting, boss Cox said: Â âBilly [Turley, goalkeeping coach] told me that heâs chucking himself around like a mad man in training. Â
âWhat he hasnât done at the minute is 'contact' work. Â Iâd like to think I can get him a behind-closed-doors game next week or the week after to see if heâs up to it. Â
âHeâs doing normal goalkeeping training which is really positive for the club.
Jason Harrison (Mansfield 103.2) and John Lomas (Chad) are asking the questions
âI thought Shane was excellent the other night [at Macclesfield] but we need two goalkeepers at the club and canât be walking a tightrope if one gets injured.â
Cox has made enquires to bring in a new goalkeeper ahead of Saturdayâs FA Trophy Round One tie at home to Matlock Town.
âIt has to be right though, I donât want to upset the apple cart by bringing someone in,â he added.
Anthony Howell may make a return to the squad after missing out in midweek with a knee problem. Â Exodus Geohaghon is also available for selection after serving a one match ban, whilst John Dempster will watch from the stands for the final time as he serves the last of a three game ban.
