Paul Merson himself is the latest player to pick up an injury in training.

Merson has told the Express and Star that he is doubtful for Saturday’s game after his Achilles tightened up following a training session this week. He had earlier said that he would be playing either on the left wing, with Demontagnac suspended, or up front with Leitao suspended (and, as it happens, also injured).

The paper also says that Standing and Westwood are nearing fitness and may both figure in the squad against Hartlepool, seemingly lending a lie to the rumours about Westwood on the message board yesterday. Mark Wright has also made better than expected progress and may figure over the Christmas period.