SEBASTIEN Ferrero has 90 minutes to convince Darlington manager David Hodgson he is the man to end his summer-long search for a striker.

The Argentinian will line up at the New Stadium this afternoon as Quakers complete their pre-season preparations at home to League One Peterborough United.

With one week to go before Quakers entertain Grimsby Town in their League Two opener, Hodgson has yet make a decision on who will lead the attack.

However, the Quakers boss has suggested that Ferrero is the most likely - out of nine trialists - to earn a permanent deal.

A foot injury has restricted the former Raith Rovers forward to just one start for Quakers, when he scored the only goal in the 1-0 win over Bradford City.

"Seba has been carrying a knock but we have seen plenty from him in training to suggest what he can do," said Hodgson.

"We'll take a good look at him in the Peterborough game and take it from there."

Hodgson has also challenged Craig Russell to prove his worth in front of goal after signing a one-year deal this week.

"It can be quite disrupting when you're asked to play in a variety of positions," said Hodgson. "We felt that it would be better to offer Craig a year on the condition that we use him as a striker. Hopefully he can repay us with a few goals."

Former Charlton striker Kim Grant will get another chance to impress against Barry Fry's men today.

The Posh narrowly avoided relegation last season. However, Hodgson believes the game will provide his side with a good work-out.

"Peterborough are a division higher than us so it should be a good test," said Hodgson.

"I'm delighted with the way our preparations have gone so far. The fitness levels are up to about 80 per cent, which is what you would expect at this stage."

Neil Wainwright and Ryan Valentine will return to the squad after being rested against Leeds. Defender Matt Clarke is still struggling with a thigh injury and will not be involved.

The sides last met in 2002, when Quakers were knocked out of the FA Cup in a third-round replay at London Road.

Craig Ireland, linked with a move to Quakers last month, will be included in a full-strength Peterborough squad after signing from Barnsley.

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