AT 18-years-old Matthew Bates may only be in his football infancy, but manager David Hodgson insists the defender has all the attributes to inspire Darlington's play-off push.

Hodgson was critical of his side after last week's 3-1 defeat at Cambridge United, expressing his concern that some players shirked from the responsibility at the Abbey Stadium.

But in signing Bates on loan from Middlesbrough until the end of the season, Hodgson believes he has a player who will add extra edge to Quakers' promotion cause.

Bates will make his Quakers debut at Mansfield Town tomorrow and Hodgson admitted: "I'm really looking forward to seeing the lad play.

"At this stage of the season we need players who are willing to give everything and Matthew is someone who will certainly give that.

"It's all about scrapping for points and I know Matthew will be up for it more than anyone.

"He has a fantastic will to win and we could do with another ten players thinking like that at Mansfield on Saturday."

Seventh-placed Quakers occupy the final play-off spot in League Two, just one point above Northampton, and Hodgson is under no illusions of the importance Saturday's clash presents with four games remaining.

"We need to focus solely on winning at any cost," added Hodgson.

"In the past I've encouraged good football, but that goes out of the window now."

Bates will come in as a straight replacement for Matt Clarke, who begins a two-match ban after receiving his tenth booking of the season at Cambridge.

And with Curtis Fleming doubtful with an ankle injury, Brian Close will earn a recall.

Hodgson will not be furthering his interest in released Leicester City midfielder Usman Gondal.