DELIGHTED Town boss Peter Jackson today confirmed defender Martin McIntosh will be in contention for Saturday's crucial League I clash at home to Southend.

Jackson's summer signing from Rotherham showed his recovery from a knee operation by playing the full 90 minutes of yesterday's 1-0 Reserve win at Barnsley (report Page 42).

Midfielder Adnan Ahmed and striker John McAliskey, who made their first senior appearances of the season from the bench at Bristol City on Saturday, also came through the Oakwell game unscathed and will be hopeful of making the squad for the visit of fifth-placed Southend.

Town remain second despite their 2-0 setback at Bristol, and Jackson is determined his side will return to winning ways at the Galpharm.

He is without left-back Danny Adams, who must serve a one-match ban after reaching five bookings.

That could mean switching David Mirfin - along with midfielder Chris Brandon back from a one-match ban - or Tom Clarke from the centre of defence, so the return of the highly experienced McIntosh is timely.

"It's been a frustrating time for Tosh, but he's worked hard in training and it was good to see him come through yesterday," said Jackson.

"He'll certainly come into my thinking for Southend, as will Ahmed and McAliskey, who both got valuable game time yesterday.

"Saturday's game marks the start of a busy and important run of games over Christmas and New Year.

"That will test our squad strength to the full, so it's crucial we have as many players available as possible."

Popular striker Pawel Abbott will join fellow players Matty Young and Aaron Hardy to sign autographs and chat to fans at the Sporting Pride shop in Cloth Hall Street between 6.00 and 7.00 tonight.