JOHN Aldridge has told his players to cast aside thoughts of a trip to mighty Newcastle United in the FA Cup 4th Round on Saturday week - always providing, of course, that Stevenage don't cause a cup replay sensation - as Tranmere Rovers embark on a crucial week in the club's history.

Before the Cup hurdle, Rovers face three Nationwide League Division One matches in the space of six days, starting with the trip this evening (Wednesday) to Bryan Robson's big spending Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium (kick-off 7.45pm).

On Saturday (February 7), Rovers travel to Reading (3pm), then next Tuesday (February 10) take on Swindon Town at Prenton Park (7.45pm) in a re-arranged fixture brought forward because of Rovers' FA Cup involvement.

That's a possible nine points which could see Tranmere climb out of the bottom three - but they are all tough and Rovers will do well to pick up three or four of those precious points.

Although they haven't conceded a goal in seven games, the fact is Tranmere have not won in the League since a 3-1 victory over Stoke City at Prenton Park last November.

Injuries still continue to haunt Mr Aldridge and with Andy Thorn's retirement due to a knee injury, Rovers' already wafer thin squad is decimated even more.

Out of favour Liverpool defender Neil Ruddock declined a loan move to Prenton Park, preferring not to drop down a division. Instead, Mr Aldridge was able to snap up versatile right sided defender Stephen Frail from Scottish Premier club Hearts in a £90,000 deal, but he will need time to adjust to the Nationwide League.

Good news for Mr Aldridge is the return of midfielder Kenny Irons, who returns from suspension to face Middlesbrough, and Clint Hill is available after a two match suspension for Saturday's trip to Reading.

But striker David Kelly's persistent knee problem, and the fitness of Lee Jones, is causing the manager concern.

Kelly fought through the pain barrier to play during last week's memorable FA Cup victory over Sunderland, but missed Saturday's goalless draw with Manchester City.

Lee Jones returned, with heavy strapping on his knee, to face City, but was forced to leave the field and was rated doubtful for tonight's clash at Middlesbrough.

Said Mr Aldridge: "The injury situation is an absolute nightmare."

The return of Graham Branch, on as a substitute during Saturday's draw, was as much a surprise as it was understandable, considering Rovers' injury crisis. The winger, who refused to sign a new contract with his present one expiring at the end of this season, had just returned from a one month loan spell at Wigan Athletic.

Said Mr Aldridge: "Graham wants to play for this club, but I left him out because I'm interested in the long term future of Tranmere Rovers. Wigan showed no interest after his loan spell, but I've no problem about playing Graham if the situation demands."

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