Matt Crooks could be in line for a big FA Cup call-up as Town prepare to tackle their Championship rivals Charlton for the third time this season.
The academy-produced midfielder has yet to make a first-team appearance, although he has been an unused substitute in the past.
Fit again after an ankle operation, the Huddersfield-born 20-year-old impressed in Monday’s development match at Sheffield Wednesday.
Now manager Mark Robins could give him an opportunity at the John Smith’s Stadium tomorrow as Town aim to make the fifth round for the second season running.
“Matt is among a number of young talented players here, and it was good to see him play the full 90 minutes at Sheffield,” said Robins.
“He has worked really hard to come back from injury, and hopefully those type of problems are behind him.
“I have a clear idea of the kind of side I want to put out against Charlton, and Matt is one of the players in my thoughts.”
Robins won’t finalise his selection until fitness tests on striker Martin Paterson (thigh) and defender Joel Lynch, who has had an injection to ease a groin and hip problem.
Nahki Wells and Joe Lolley are cup-tied, but Robins – said to be keeping close tabs on Tottenham midfielder Alex Pritchard and teenage Airdrie striker Liam Coogans – is set to restore fit-again top scorer James Vaughan to his starting side.
