LEE CLARK says the Football League’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy rules “don’t help” when it comes to team selection.
Managers are told seven of the 11 on duty for any tie must be a club’s most regular starters, with the League aiming to ensure sides are as strong as possible.
Town have a suspended fine hanging over them over the team fielded in last season’s JPT defeat at Darlington, before Clark arrived.
Clark made several checks with League officials before this season’s first-round win over Rotherham United, and expects to be looking over the paperwork again .
“The rules mean it’s not a straightforward selection process, where you pick the side you think has the best chance of winning,” said Clark.
“I understand the reasons behind the rule, but I think that it needs tweaking, because there are some grey areas.
“Take James Berrett, who made his first start of the season on Saturday. He was in the last side I named on merit, yet he’s not what could be termed a regular starter.
“Myself and the club secretary will be going through the appearances to ensure we meet the criteria laid down.
“If we’re in any doubt, we’ll check with the League again.”
Clark ran the rule over Chesterfield when they beat Grimsby 3-2 in last Wednesday’s League II clash at Saltergate.
“They’re a good side, and especially strong at home,” said Clark, looking for a first away win in four attempts.
“John Sheridan is an experienced manager who has brought in some good players and has got his side well organised and playing some good football.
“It will be tough, but we are going there to win through to the next round.”
