Rendell returns for visit of Nuneaton

The 25-year-old missed the midweek defeat to Braintree due to a groin injury, but boss Paul Buckle is confident it will clear up in time, especially with top scorer Stuart Fleetwood suspended due to his red card on Tuesday night.

Speaking at Thursday’s press conference, he said: “Rendell is available. He trained today, today was the big one where the questions will be asked.

“He’s come through that okay, it’s still a bit sore and he’s not completely free of it, so we’ll look again tomorrow and we’ll pick the team.”

Rendell has scored five goals this campaign and is expected to come straight back into the side although Buckle is mulling over how utilise the summer signing from Wycombe, while also admitting Dan Walker is in with a shout after his goal in midweek.

He said: “We’ve got lots of options in terms of upfront. Dan Walker comes into it again as well, I thought Jake Robinson did okay, but we need to look at the balance of the team.

“We won’t be afraid of playing (Jon) Shaw and Rendell together. If we get crosses into the box like we did the other night, we get some really good pace on the flanks and the full backs overlapping, that causes problems as they’re both very good box players.

“I’ve got the opportunity to play Shawy up top with (Andre) Gray and Rendell in just behind which we’ve done before. I’m pretty confident with the mood the players are that we can go and win the game.”

Despite conceding three against Braintree, Buckle isn’t anticipating any changes at the back, especially with doubts over both Alex Lacey (illness) and Dean Beckwith (groin).

He said: “They’ve got the shirts at the moment and it’s up to all the boys to be ready.

“Alex Lacey has not trained as he’s ill and it’s touch and go with Dean.

“Dean’s a perfect example of a true professional. Deano waited such a long time and when he got his chance he took it.

“The reason he took it was because he trained hard every day, did extra, motivated himself and they’re the type of players you’re looking for because it’s a long old season, there’s lots of high and lows.”

That could well mean another game on the sidelines for last season’s player of the year Janos Kovacs as Buckle continued: “Its been hard for him. Players go through dips in form, get tired physically and mentally, I’m so just pleased he agreed with me and the staff he needed a rest.

“Jan’s come out, we’ve kicked on, he’s got to train well like he’s doing and wait for his opportunity.”

Buckle was also quick to point out the mood in the camp remained a positive one despite seeing their three game winning streak end with the shock reverse on Tuesday night.

He said: “Everybody is buzzing, it doesn’t feel like we’ve lost the game. We’re all looking at it as one defeat in four rather than defeat in our last game, because we know so much went on in the last game.

“I’m so pleased with the performance and attitude of the players and supporters.

“There’s a real buzz around training, a great togetherness, which we’re going to to need as there’s lots of games ahead of us.”

Speaking about Nuneaton, who are struggling near the foot of the table, Buckle added: “They will be dangerous opposition, every opposition will be.

“They like to come and attack, are very positive in their play, looking to win games which is healthy and they’ve got their reward this year.

“It should be a good game, an entertaining game and I’m sure they’re looking forward to it.”

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