"We could do with them back!" Nigel Clough hoping to get missing midfielders back to full fitness

Mansfield Town could do with getting their missing midfielders back to full fitness.

That is the opinion of Nigel Clough following last night's draw with Carlisle United.

Skipper Ollie Clarke was rested for the visit of the Cumbrians, although he did make a late cameo off the bench.

Meanwhile, the influential duo of George Lapslie and George Maris were missing from the match day squad.

"Ollie needs a breather," Clough said.

"We'll see how he is, he might even need one again Saturday (when Grimsby Town arrive at One Call Stadium).

"It's a bit frustrating when you see him unavailable. Then we've got George Lapslie and George Maris upstairs as well – we could do with them back.

"Quinny (Stephen Quinn) is about running on empty now having played a few games."

However, Clough did take time to praise goalscorer Stephen McLaughlin and the returning Harry Charsley for their part in the draw.

"Stephen McLaughlin stepped in and stepped up as well," Clough added.

"And Harry Charsley, I thought did very well coming back into the team."