Phillips Closing In On Return

Goalkeeper Steve Phillips could return to acton next week after months out following a double shoulder operation. The summer signing from Bristol Rovers has trained without any recurrence of the injury following a return to first team training this week.

He could be set for a run out against Barrow for the reserve side should he train well enough, however it’s tough to see him dislodging a in-form Rhys Taylor. The Chelsea loanee has probably been the real unsung hero so far this season with David Artell generally taking the plaudits for a solid defence, but Taylor’s performances between the sticks has arguably won the Alex a fair few points already.

With Taylor staying for the season, Phillips’ best chance of winning back the number 1 jersey may come in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy – should we progress past Macclesfield next week. Dario’s generally used his second keeper in the Paint Pot games over the years.