Nigel Clough challenges fringe players to show what they can do

The Stags gaffer has already identified the areas he wants to strengthen in the January transfer window.

But Clough says it’s not too late for fringe players to earn their chance.

“Players can change your mind very quickly,” he said. “Look at Jamie Reid, Nicky (Maynard) and Jordan (Bowery) were playing well and he was struggling to get a look in.

“He had a chance, scored a goal and played exceptionally well and now he is back in my thoughts more than he was two weeks ago.

“We have got a couple of players in mind who we would like to bring in, but players have a chance over the next four weeks to change our mind.

“Everybody will get a chance. Even if it’s just half a game, everyone will get a chance.

“If they take that then we see them in a different light, but we will never disregard a player without giving them a chance.”