Tuesday morning inspection ahead of Tranmere Rovers v Huddersfield Town

Dec 7 2010 by Dougie Thomson, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

LEE CLARK awaits a pitch inspection at Tranmere Rovers this morning having prepared his Town players for their Johnstone’s Paint Trophy tie with a first training session on grass in 10 days.

The manager, who has moved fast to quash any speculation linking him with former club Newcastle after Chris Hughton’s departure as manager, knows that with temperatures struggling to get above freezing, it’s touch and go whether the Northern area semi-final (7.45) at Prenton Park will get the go ahead.

The Southern showdown between Bristol Rovers and Exeter has already been postponed for a second time and put back to next Tuesday, when Brentford host Charlton in that area’s other semi-final.

Also frozen off tonight are the FA Cup ties at Notts County, where Bournemouth were to be the visitors, and Lincoln (versus Hereford).

Clark says it’s business as usual ahead of the Tranmere decision, and with leaders Brighton at the Galpharm on League I duty this Saturday, he was happy with yesterday’s work-out.

“The last time we were on grass was the FA Cup game against Macclesfield,” said Clark, who could pit Antony Kay against his former club if tonight’s tie is played.

“The indoor facilities we use are excellent, but there’s no substitute for getting out onto a full-sized natural surface, and you could see the players enjoyed it.

“We have prepared as we normally would, and if we are unable to play tonight, we will simply work towards the Brighton game.”

On the Newcastle situation, Clark said: “If there is speculation, it’s not of my making. I’m fully committed to my job here.”