STAGS are still hopeful that injured trio Carl Muggleton, Mickey Boulding and Gareth Jelleyman could be in contention for Saturday's crucial clash with Shrewsbury.
Muggleton has been nursing a badly bruised thumb but the keeper returned to training this morning and, if he comes through, will return to the squad.
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Leading scorer Boulding (knee injury) will spend today with physio Paul Madin and manager Paul Holland is hoping he will be back with the first team squad tomorrow.
Most confusing are the prospects of left back Jelleyman and his Achilles' tendon injury.
Holland said on Monday that Jelleyman would be 50-50 and a last minute fitness test would probably be required.
But yesterday (Wednesday) the club firmly stated Jelleyman would not recover in time and ruled him out.
However, this morning, Holland said: "Gareth, like Mickey, is coming along better than hoped and, although it is still going to be touch and go, I am hoping he and Mickey may be back with me tomorrow."
If they are not 100 per cent fit, as neither of them were last Saturday when both limped off, Holland has a big decision to take whether or not to risk starting with them in such a big game.
He also has an option of starting the vastly experienced Kevin Horlock in central midfield.
"I am sure Kevin is now fit enough to start a game and experienced enough to get through it," said Holland. "But he is certainly not fully fit.
"I would like to get Kevin more involved these last three games.
"But he has been a great signing so far just for the way he has been off the field with the players – his experience has been invaluable."
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