Jennings and Riley back in contention as Mansfield Town prepare for Newport County

Defenders James Jennings and Martin Riley could return for Mansfield Town on Saturday.
James Jennings receives treatment from Physio Simon Murphy -Pic by: Richard ParkesJames Jennings receives treatment from Physio Simon Murphy -Pic by: Richard Parkes
James Jennings receives treatment from Physio Simon Murphy -Pic by: Richard Parkes

The duo, who were both injured in the 3-0 defeat to Oxford, both played 90 minutes in a behind-closed door defeat at Alfreton Town on Tuesday.

However, with Stags facing three games inside a week, boss Paul Cox is likely to stick with the same defence that kept a clean sheet against Dagenham last time out.

Cox said: “Over the next few weeks we are going to play a lot of games and we will need to utilise our squad.

“We are coming to the end of the season when minds and bodies are tired.

“Hindsight is a wonderful thing and perhaps I should have changed things against Bury, but we had come off the back of an excellent result in midweek.

“This is a big month for us. Having so many games in quick succession means we can pick up points quickly and climb the table.

“Jennings and Riley both played in the Alfreton game. We will see how they are over the next 48 hours and make a decision.

“We will take each match on its face value. All clubs from 10th downwards will have their eyes on avoiding relegation.

“Aside from the top three and Fleetwood in terms on budget and squad, there is not much between the rest of the other teams.”

Mansfield face fellow League Two newcomers Newport County, who are looking to mount a late push for a play-off spot.

Stags are currently six points above Northampton Town who occupy the last relegation place.

The two sides meet in what could be a crunch clash on 15th March.