TOM CLARKE is on standby for a first start in more than 11 months as Town plot a third successive away League I win at Crewe tomorrow (3.00).
Not since October 14, when an injury suffered in the 2-1 win over Carlisle led to a knee reconstruction, has the 19-year-old figured from the first whistle.
But with Aaron Hardy likely to be needed at right-back, Frank Sinclair ruled out by a hamstring injury and question marks against David Mirfin and on-loan Richard Keogh, Clarke, pictured right, is primed to play alongside elder brother Nathan as Town aim to bounce back from Tuesday’s 4-1 Johnstone’s paint Trophy mauling at Grimsby.
Mirfin is back in training after missing four matches with a knee problem, but boss Andy Ritchie is unwilling to plunge him straight into action without a Reserve outing under his belt.
Keogh and midfielder Michael Collins are both with the Republic of Ireland Under 21 squad for tonight’s big European Championship qualifier against Portugal in Cork.
They will report to Gresty Road, but any involvement there depends on the extent of tonight’s action.
“There are a few ifs and buts, and if Tom is needed, I’ll be more than happy to send him out,” said boss Andy Ritchie, who will give a late test to skipper and midfielder Jon Worthington (groin).
