Quakers boss calls for support from Boro fans

With Boro excused from this afternoon's Premiership programme following their historic midweek exerts in Europe, Hodgson last night invited thumb-twiddling fans to a trip down memory lane.

Boasting Quakers' oldest Boro connection, Hodgson - who left Ayresome Park for Liverpool in 1982 - is one of ten former players now on the Williamson Motors Stadium payroll.

Mark Proctor, Craig Liddle, Andy Collett, Curtis Fleming, Neil Maddison, Brian Close, Sam Russell, Craig Hignett and Alun Armstrong are the other nine.

While Hignett will make his home bow against Northampton Town this afternoon, Quakers' latest Boro old boy, Armstrong, will make his debut.

And, with Boro in action at Everton tomorrow, Hodgson said: "I'm sure the game will have extra appeal to Boro fans and hopefully we will get a good turnout.

"I know Craig Hignett has a massive following across at Middlesbrough and I hope some of those fans will come across and watch him.

"Our connections with Middlesbrough have made it possible to bring the likes of Higgy and Alun Armstrong to the club."

Gateshead-born Armstrong joined on a three-month deal on Tuesday after being freed by Ipswich Town during the summer.

Despite interest from Bristol City, Rotherham United, Walsall, Wycombe Wnderers, Doncaster Rovers and Oldham Athletic, the 29-year-old's fitness remains a major issue.

Armstrong has failed to make a single competitive appearance this season and Hodgson remains cautious.

"We've got to be thoughtful and remember that Alun has not played eight consecutive games like everybody else," said Hodgson.

"We hope to get a good hour out of him and if he makes his mark in that time we will look at taking him off. But as Hignett proved at Rochdale seven days ago - where his late header rescued a point on his Quakers debut - Hodgson is confident Armstrong can quickly adapt to League Two football.

He said: "Once games open up at this level, the hustle and bustle disappears and I'm sure Alun will come into his own.

"Hopefully he can do himself justice with us and grab a few goals."

Armstrong has been handed the number 19 shirt and could partner Hignett in attack this afternoon, as Quakers bid to extend their unbeaten run to five games.

And Hodgson is hoping his new strike-pairing can help end Quakers' poor home record.

They have not won on home soil since beating Grimsby on the opening day of the season.

And while the Cobblers have not won in their last six league games, Hodgson said: "Northampton have made a poor start but that is something which does not concern me.

"We have not won at home since the first game of the season and that is something we need to put right.

"But if we can play to our strengths I have every confidence that we will beat Northampton on Saturday."

Hodgson could boost his striker ranks further next week after he was given permission to speak to Blackburn Rovers striker Jemal Johnson.

"Blackburn have agreed everything and it is just up to the lad now," said Hodgson.

"I've watched Jemal on several occasions and he would be a fantastic addition to the squad.

"He's so quick and direct, he's well worth a shout."

The Football League last night refused Quakers permission to sign Bradford City striker Michael Symes on a month's loan.

The Bantams are in administration and League bosses felt it inappropriate to let Symes leave in case of injuries or suspensions.

But the club have confirmed the arrival of American winger Adolfo Gregorio on a three-month deal. Argentine striker Leandro Scartascini has left the club.

York City striker Levent Yalcin will continue to train with Quakers, but will not be available for competitive action.

However, former Leeds United front man Clyde Wijnhard will not be joining the club.

"We were interested in Clyde but he has received a phenomenal offer to play for a club in Dubai," said Hodgson. "We just weren't at the races."

Read more about the Quakers here.