Lawless a doubt for Southport opener

Alex Lawless, right, remains a doubt for Saturday

Last season’s player of the year has yet to feature during any of Town’s friendlies, but boss John Still didn’t rule a shock return out entirely.

He said: “He’s back in training this week, and he’s an experienced player.

“So although he’s probably a bit behind, I don’t think he’s too far behind and he’d have a chance.”

One player who definitely misses out is striker Alex Wall, who picked up a hip injury during Monday night’s 4-2 win at Thurrock.

Still continued: “Alex got quite a nasty knock on Tuesday night in a challenge and had to come off.

“It wasn’t as bad as we first thought, but he’s probably a week away as he was a little bit behind on something else anyway.

“Although he could play, he wasn’t ready for the first team just yet, but it hasn’t knocked him back too much.”

Defender Anthony Charles is back in contention after completing 90 minutes in midweek as Still confirmed: “He’s pushed himself forward absolutely now.”

Whether the summer signing has done enough to displace Alex Lacey in the team is another matter though as the youngster has been a real find during the pre-season campaign.

Speaking after the 7-0 win over an Arsenal XI, in which Lacey started, Still said: “I saw him play for Eastleigh. He came on as sub and had a little bit of something about him.

“When we started pre-season I thought I wanted to have a look at him. I like young players, I want to push young players, so I’ve pushed him and he’s responded.”

The Town boss confirmed he already knew what team would take the field at Haig Avenue though, if everyone comes through training beforehand,

He continued: “We’ll have a look tomorrow, abd I’ll do my normal thing, try not to look too deep into the team, but see what’s going on in training.

“Then Thursday night and Friday, I’ll decide how we’re going to go.

“If everyone comes through training OK today and tomorrow, I know my team.”

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