CRAIG Liddle is facing the toughest decision of his career after being told he can continue playing - but at his own risk.

The extent of Liddle's latest injury - a detached stomach muscle - would entitle the Darlington skipper to retirement, although the 33-year-old was yesterday given the option of playing on by a specialist in Manchester.

And, while Liddle is desperate to continue playing - as Quakers chase promotion - the former Middlesbrough defender has been urged to consider the long-term effects.

Liddle has not played since February and has been restricted to 22 appearances this season following a string of injury setbacks.

"Craig has a huge decision to make," admitted manager David Hodgson. "In no way will I try to influence that decision which rests entirely with him.

"If he feels that he can carry on then that's fantastic news. On the other hand if he can't we have to accept and respect that he has his health to think about.

"I know Lids and I know he will be desperate to keep on playing. But I'm also aware that he has to consider the long-term effects that could have."

Last season Liddle cancelled a knee operation in order to help Quakers avoid relegation and the influential stopper, who holds the 11th highest number of appearances - 322 - of all-time for the club, will be tempted to do the same 12 months on.

"The specialist has told Craig that he can retire and be entitled to a pay-out, but it's a decision which is entirely up to him," said physio Paul Gough. "He can play on until the end of the season and decide from there. It all depends on whether he physically wants to do it because he is in a lot of pain.

"Knowing Lids I would say he would be inclined to play on."

Meanwhile, defender David McGurk will be available for Saturday's visit of Kidderminster after all. It was feared he would miss up to a month with a knee injury. However, further tests have shown that McGurk will not require surgery on cartilage damage.

Despite McGurk's availability Hodgson is still hoping to sign a central defender before today's transfer deadline.

The Quakers boss has completed the signing of Huddersfield striker Akpo Sodje on loan until the end of the season, while Millwall forward Kevin Braniff will remain on trial at the Williamson Motors Stadium.

The pair both played for Quakers' reserves in yesterday's 1-0 win over Boston United. Craig Hughes - younger brother of Chris - scored the only goal of the game.

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