Paul Cox believes Mansfield Town are heading in the right direction

Cox was speaking after watching the club’s reserve side maintain their 100 per cent start in the Central League (East Division) following a 3-1 win at home to Hartlepool.

Goals from Matt Rhead, Ryan Tafazolli and Jake Speight sealed maximum points and gave Cox another selection headache for Saturday’s visit of Northampton.

The Stags youth team also got in on the act after thumping Chesterfield Blues 4-1 on Wednesday.

“It was an excellent win for the reserves and a good performance,” said Cox.

“There are a number of players who are chomping at the bit to get into the first team. It gives me a bit of a selection dilemma for the weekend, but it is a nice problem to have.

“The club is heading in the right direction on the footballing side. Both the reserves and the youth team are playing very well and we just need to keep it going.

“I do not want the club to stand still, we all want to see the club go forward and become known as a winning club and a successful club.”

Stags go into the game against the lowly Cobblers knowing a win could push them into the League Two play-off places.

Mansfield will be without the suspended Martin Riley (three game ban) and Chris Clements who damaged medial ligaments in the 2-1 win at York City.

Winger Lindon Meikle also has a fitness concern after picking up a knock to his hip flexor.

Northampton Town, who were beaten in last year’s play-off final by Bradford, have yet to win away from home this season and are currently without a win in five.