EFE SODJE leads Town's proud band of 'thirtysomethings' into battle against Middlesbrough tomorrow determined to take another solid step towards the Coca-Cola League I campaign.
The 31-year-old Nigerian international is not only joined in the squad by 34-year-old Rob Edwards but by both Andy Booth and Steve Yates, who missed the opening pre-season win at Emley.
Booth, 30, and Yates, 34, have recovered from a hamstring injury and Achilles surgery respectively and will travel with a 22-strong squad to face Boro's new signings Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Mark Viduka in the behind-closed-doors friendly (1.00).
"Sodje didn't do pre-season with us last year and it was a bit difficult to judge at first just how he was, but he has come back fit and strong this time and he's right up there at the front in all the physical stuff we've been doing," said manager Peter Jackson today.
"He might be 31, but Efe is a real athlete and he's just as determined as the rest of the lads to do well against Middlesbrough tomorrow and to carry that through into the new season."
Jackson intends to give most of his squad a run-out tomorrow now the 'six subs' rule has been scrapped, but anyone who doesn't play will train after the game and be strong contenders for Monday's next outing against Ossett Town at Ingfield (7.30).
"Middlesbrough have one of the best training facilities in the country and they are putting on a meal for us as well," said Jackson.
"It will be good to get Boothy and Yates into a game. I do try to look after the older players training wise, because I know they won't let me down when it comes to matchdays."
