Lincoln hopeful Shackell will be fit to face Oldham

Posted Tuesday, March 12, 2019 by PA

Lincoln are hopeful experienced defender Jason Shackell will be available for the visit of Oldham in Sky Bet League Two on Tuesday evening.

Shackell went off shortly before half-time in last Friday’s 1-0 win over Yeovil with a hamstring injury and Imps boss Danny Cowley is wary of overburdening the 35-year-old centre-half.

He will need to be managed in the coming weeks alongside club captain Lee Frecklington, who is expected to be in contention for next Monday’s trip to Mansfield as he continues his recovery from a groin problem.

Danny Rowe came off the bench midway through the second half against the Glovers following his return from a thigh strain and will be pushing for a starting role against the Latics.

Oldham forward Johan Branger faces a late fitness test.

The Gabon international was introduced midway through the second half in the 1-1 draw at Cambridge last weekend but took a knock and is therefore doubtful for the trip to Sincil Bank.

Dan Gardner (knee) and Ousmane Fane (leg) remain long-term absentees.

But manager Paul Scholes has no other injury or suspension concerns as his side look to end a five-game winless run.