MIDFIELDER Ian Craney reckons Town’s next two games can shape the rest of the season.

Town face fifth-placed Millwall at The Galpharm tomorrow (3.00) before travelling to second-placed MK Dons on Tuesday, and he feels if Town are to get back into the play-off frame these are two must-win games.

“We are not far off, but if we are going to be involved in the mix then these games are absolutely vital,” said the 26-year-old.

“We have got to be looking at clawing teams like Millwall and MK Dons back to us.

“It would be good if we could beat both of these sides, but even gaining four points would be a very positive return.”

However, Craney admitted that Town were looking back at four points lost following their draws with Stockport County away and at home to Colchester United on Tuesday when late goals cost them points.

“Simply we could have had an extra four points on the board,” said Craney.

“But it is one of those things and all we can do is look to ensuring we beat who we are facing in the next game.

“All we can do is be positive and look forward to what we can do next.”

Millwall arrive at the Galpharm having notched an eighth win on their travels with a 1-0 success at Southend on Tuesday and Craney is not surprised Lions manager Kenny Jackett is having such a positive effect at the New Den.

Craney was signed by Jackett at Swansea and is plainly a fan of his former boss.

“Kenny bought me for £150,000 at Swansea a couple of years ago – he is a really nice guy,” said Craney.

“It is definitely no surprise that he has had success with Millwall and he has to be one of the best managers about at this level.

“They have been good on their travels this season, but we are on a decent run of form at home, so it is up to us to push on and take the game to them.

“We felt we were unlucky not to get something from the game down their earlier this season when we lost 2-1, so we have to feel that we can go out and keep our decent home run going.”

Town boss Lee Clark is set to look at his options for tomorrow’s game as he seeks to find the right balance for Jim Goodwin’s absence due to a two-match ban for collecting 10 yellow cards.

Craney replaced Goodwin as a substitute in Tuesday’s 2-2 home draw with Colchester United, but Clark may consider James Berrett or Tom Clarke as alternatives.

Central defender Nathan Clarke is believed to be sufficiently recovered from the knee injury that kept him out of Tuesday’s game to be included in the squad, but club captain Chris Lucketti may retain his place in central defence.