Cleator Moor Celtic will have the welcome return of experienced defender Jordan Little for their home clash with Daisy Hill.
Little, who rejoined Celtic from Workington Reds on loan at the start of the season and will stay permanently, has recovered from COVID-19.
His absence last week affected the side’s defensive resistance as they went down 5-1 at Ilkley and re bottom of the North West Counties, albeit with matches in hand of all the clubs immediately above them.
Manager Martin Mahone said: “We know we are in a tough relegation battle in a very tough League. Because we have struggled to put out a settled side each week it has taken us out of our comfort zone.
“If we could play our best team week in and week out we would be comfortable but sadly that hasn’t been the case this season.
“It’s great to have Jordan back to stiffen up the defence but we have other players missing this week and Daisy Hill can be formidable opponents. On their day they are capable of giving anybody a game.”
Celtic’s cause wasn’t helped by a heavy fine and a three-point deduction when they were unable to raise a side for an away fixture last month. It effectively took away the three points they had earned from their only win.
The Bolton side Daisy Hill sit nine points better off but from two more games so this is avital clash for both clubs.
Whilst the League position is disappointing, Celtic have made progress in the FA Vase, through two ties and have reached the first round proper for the first time in 29 years.
“Our best performances have been in the Vase and we just need to repeat those in the League but with players missing it does make it much harder,” said Mahone.
