Match preview: Johnson and Byrne set for Alfreton Town debuts against Macclesfield Town

Reds manager Nicky Law has had his squad bolstered by the arrival of goalkeeper Sam Johnson on a month’s loan from Sky Bet League One club Port Vale and experienced former Scunthorpe United and Derry City defender Cliff Byrne, a central defender who can also play right back.

Both look set to make their debuts as Law looks to shore up a defence which has the second worst record in the division having conceded 39 in 20 games.

Law also has the boost of having striker Karl Hawley available again following a three-match ban, but he will have to make further changes though as left-back Lathaniel Rowe-Turner misses the game through a one-match suspension for picking up his fifth caution of the season in the 3-2 home defeat against Dover Athletic.

There are no new injury worries for the Reds boss who will be looking for his side to bounce back from the Dover defeat.

However, another tough game is in prospect as Macclesfield have been in very good form at home where they are unbeaten in ten games winning six and drawing the other four.

Victories have come against Braintree Town (1-0), Eastleigh (2-0), Southport (3-0), Barnet (2-1), Dover Athletic (1-0) and Chester (3-1). Draws have been achieved with Kidderminster Harriers (0-0), FC Halifax Town (1-1), Gateshead (1-1) and Forest Green Rovers (2-2).

The Silkmen are unbeaten in their last seven games and in their last outing drew 0-0 at Welling United last Saturday.

Transport

ATFC Supporters’ Association transport for the game at Macclesfield departs at 10.15am and seats can be booked by contacting Mark Thorpe on 07857 558401.