Jonathan Forte in line for starting berth when Exeter face Tranmere

Jonathan Forte could be back in the Exeter starting line-up for the clash with Tranmere.

The striker has had an infected knee but made his comeback as a substitute at Lincoln and is pushing for a return to the first XI after his 30-minute run out in midweek.

Elsewhere, Dean Moxey (hamstring), Nicky Law and Lee Martin are set to remain out.

Troy Brown and Luke Croll are long-term absentees for fifth-placed Exeter.

Tranmere, who would move level on points with their opponents with a victory, could have captain Steve McNulty available again.

The defender has resumed training after a month-long absence with an Achilles injury and he may travel down to St James Park.

Liam Ridehalgh and Harvey Gilmour are also back in training and nearing returns but Sid Nelson (broken nose) may need a little longer to fully recover.

Rovers have taken 10 points from their last four matches to get their play-off challenge back on track.