TONY CARSS is rated only a 50-50 chance for Town's clash with leaders Oxford United at the McAlpine on Saturday.
The 27-year-old utility player was initially expected back for Saturday's trip to Macclesfield, which he missed, and he continues to struggle in his recovery from a knee injury.
Manager Peter Jackson explained today: "Tony is still battling to overcome the problem and there has to be some doubt about him being ready for Saturday, which is a disappointment for him and for us.
"It must be three weeks since the specialist told him that good rest would clear the trouble, but he is still now not fully fit.
"He is continuing to have treatment and we will see how he goes, but I would have to say he's only a 50-50 chance for Saturday at the moment."
Carss has not played since coming off injured in the 0-0 McAlpine draw against lowly Cheltenham on November 29 and was left out of the Reserve side which lost 1-0 to Sheffield Wednesday at the McAlpine yesterday.
Defender Ian Hughes is joining in light training, while David Mirfin is responding well to treatment for his hamstring injury.
John Thorrington (ankle) is taking things day by day as he looks to get fit, while Jon Newby will be another couple of weeks before he can re-start training after his knee surgery.
Fans are reminded it's just £1 admission for Under 16s on Saturday against Oxford, while tickets for the Boxing Day trip to Darlington remain on sale at the McAlpine.
There is a £2 reduction for tickets bought in advance, when prices are £12 (adults) and £6 (juniors, seniors and students). On the day it will be £14 for adults and £7 concessions.
