Exeter City vs Northampton Town preview - Noble set for Exeter return

Exeter will be able to include David Noble in their side to face Northampton.

The Grecians were unable to include the former Oldham midfielder against Accrington last weekend as the registration window was not open in time but he is now available.

Alex Nicholls joined Noble in signing a permanent deal with the Grecians this week after a successful loan spell and he looks set to line up against the side he only left on Tuesday.

Ryan Harley started that 2-1 home defeat to Accrington despite being under the weather in the build-up to kick-off and the Swindon loanee, who is expected to agree a permanent deal in the coming days, looks set to partner Noble in the heart of midfield.

Chris Wilder has had a mini clear-out at Northampton this week with Kelvin Langmead and Ricky Ravenhill leaving the Cobblers.

Ivan Toney remains suspended after his red card on Boxing Day against Bury but will be available for Wilder after the trip to St James Park.

Gregor Robertson (ribs) could return but Zander Diamond and Ian Morris remain sidelined.

"I always said in January we needed to decrease the squad, it will be good to work with a smaller group," Wilder told the club's official site.