Northampton may stick with Oliver up front for Crewe clash

Posted Friday, November 15, 2019 by PA

Northampton forward Vadaine Oliver will hope to retain his place in the starting line-up for Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two match at home to Crewe.

The summer signing opened his account for the Cobblers in a 3-0 win over Chippenham in the FA Cup last weekend after previously struggling for regular game time.

Fellow forward Harry Smith was also on target as leading marksman Andy Williams remained an unused substitute for the first round tie.

It leaves boss Keith Curle with a decision to make, but he is expected to recall David Cornell in goal despite Steve Arnold impressing on his return from a hamstring injury at Chippenham.

Crewe manager David Artell will make a late decision on if goalkeeper Will Jaaskelainen can feature at Northampton.

The Finland Under-21 international is set to face Romania on Thursday and, if it is too much of quick a turnaround to play for the Railwaymen on Saturday, Dave Richards will again deputise.

Artell has been boosted this week by winger Daniel Powell and defender Eddie Nolan returning to training.

Both have been sidelined with ankle injuries recently, but Olly Lancashire is out for the foreseeable future with an Achilles injury.