DARLINGTON boss David Hodgson last night delivered his verdict on the season so far - and believes inconsistency has cost his side a place among the early League Two pacesetters.

After six league games Quakers lie 11th in the table ahead of this Saturday's visit of leaders Scunthorpe United.

In comparison, the Iron have been installed as early season favourites for promotion after an unbeaten start, winning four of their opening six league games.

However, Hodgson believes that, with the right additions to his squad, they are capable of challenging the likes of Scunthorpe.

He said: "The group of players we have at this football club are not capable of being in that top three position right now.

"Scunthorpe, Macclesfield and Bristol Rovers have all proved that you can be up there if you're consistent enough.

"It's early doors and we have to find that. Hopefully when we bring new players in we will be able to find the consistency we need."

Hodgson is hoping to run the rule over Moroccan striker Hicham Zeroulai this week, while an approach has been made for an unnamed Slovenian international forward.

"We are due to come out of administration on September 7 so we will push on and see what we can do," said Hodgson.

"I'm waiting for one or two calls back so will just have to wait and see."

Matt Clarke will be fit to face Scunthorpe despite sustaining a head injury in Monday's draw with Cambridge.

The defender-cum-striker received stitches after an accidental clash of heads with Us defender Adam Tann.

"Scunthorpe will provide us with a good test and we will need to find that extra cutting edge if we are to take anything from the game," said Hodgson.

Fans are being reminded that a bus service is now in place for all Saturday home games. Six Stagecoach buses will run a non-stop service between Tubwell Row in the town centre and the Williamson Motors Stadium. The service starts at 1.15pm, leaving every 15 minutes until the last bus, which leaves the town centre at 2.30pm. Buses will leave the stadium after games at 4.45pm, 5pm, 5.15pm and 5.30pm.

Read more about Darlington here.