Workington Reds acting skipper Steve Rigg had an operation on his problem knee earlier this week.
It is reported to have gone well, and now all eyes will be on the man he replaced as captain Dav Symington, who has been out of action since before the turn of the year,
He was not expected to play again this season, while he waited for an operation, but made a surprise return on the bench at Guiseley last week and came on for a late cameo.
Reds Boss Billy Barr said: “We gave the lads Tuesday off and we will be back in on Thursday. Some were carrying a few niggles while others were working.
“We need to look after everybody for the last 45 days of the season.
“Riggy had his operation on Tuesday and it went well thankfully. Dav has had an injection so just waiting to see how he reacts.”
The return of Symington, even at a reduced output, has been a boost for the squad especially after the departure of Daniel Ogwuru and no new arrivals.
Symington’s goal contributions over the years underline what a key member of the side he has been.
“There are no new signings at the moment. I had contact with a few over the last couple of weeks but it looks unlikely we will get them,” said Barr.
Reds have been playing under pressure for months now and since the arrival of Barr have been handling it well.
Their recent record of six games unbeaten – three away draws and three home wins – is play-off form and has dragged them back into a situation where they have a genuine chance of avoiding the drop.
But Barr’s message will be that there is no let-up – the run-up to the final day with a sequence of consecutive Cup finals has not changed.
This Saturday is especially important as scheduled visitors to Borough Park, Stockbridge Park Steels are in their sights.
Stocksbridge are currently a point better off from the same number of games and with a worst goal difference.
They have only one win in their last seven games and have picked up only nine points out of the last 24. They have not won away for eight games and have not scored in their last two away games.
Those are figures which will frighten most Reds fans who know that over the years their favourites have had a habit of being extra generous to struggling visitors.
“No complacency, no lack of intensity” will be obvious messages to his troops as Barr looks to make it four home wins in a row.
Reds gates have stood up really well despite being bottom of the League and with four more home games the board hope that those impressive numbers can be even improved on.
Starting on Saturday the message from the club has been: “We are offering everyone the chance to watch this huge game for a tenner (£8 concessions) simply book your ticket online or at the office before 6pm on Friday.
“Bring the family, u16s go free, bring a mate or three and let’s get the whole community behind the lads!”
Kick-off at Borough Park is 3pm.
