PETER JACKSON today extended the loan spell of keeper Paul Rachubka to the end of the season as Town stepped up preparations for the play-off clash with Lincoln City.

The 22-year-old's loan from Premiership Charlton Athletic expired after Saturday's 1-1 draw with Cheltenham which left Town fourth in the final Third Division table.

Jackson moved quickly to ensure Rachubka will be available for Saturday's trip to Sincil Bank (3.00).

He will also be available for the second semi-final leg at the McAlpine a week tomorrow (7.45) and for the May 31 final at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium should Town get through.

Midfielder Gary Harkins, however, has been allowed to return to Blackburn Rovers after playing three times in the run-in.

The news comes on a day when Town have two players out of training - midfielder Tony Carss (thigh) and striker John McAliskey (badly bruised toe).

The experienced Carss is already rated doubtful for Saturday's clash, having passed a fitness test only at the last minute to take his place against Cheltenham.

Jackson says the players have responded superbly in training since Saturday's crushing events and explained:

"I've extended the loan for Paul (pictured right) to cover us through the play-offs because he has done an excellent job while he's been at the club.

"He has kept a lot of clean sheets, made some terrific saves to earn us valuable points and he's been a big influence in the dressing room as well.

"I didn't think it was fair to keep Gary Harkins on because he is unlikely to get a chance now that Lee Fowler is back to fitness and both Danny Schofield and Efe Sodje are free from suspension."

On the injuries, Jackson added: "Tony looks to be struggling at the moment and we'll have to see how he responds to treatment.

"It's the same with Macca, too, although I think he should be okay."