DARLINGTON have earmarked Torquay United defender Steve Woods as a possible replacement for Notts County-bound Matt Clarke.

Quakers boss David Hodgson last night admitted the club faces a fight to keep hold of Clarke after receiving an approach from relegated County.

The 23-year-old recently agreed to take up his one-year option to remain with Quakers for another season.

However, Hodgson has conceded that the club is in no position to compete with what County are able to offer the former Halifax defender.

Clarke will command a transfer fee as he is still under contract, but that would not be an issue.

Hodgson said: "I'm not the kind of person to stand in somebody's way if they have the chance to further themselves.

"Unfortunately for us, Notts County are in a position where they can offer Matt better terms.

"He is still under contract with us but I don't think it would be fair if we told Matt he had to stay here on less money. That is not my way of thinking."

Hodgson has already made public his interest in bringing defender Craig Ireland in the opposite direction from Meadow Lane, along with released Bradford stopper Mark Bower.

And the manager is also keeping a close check on Woods, who was the only ever-present in the Gulls side which gained promotion to Division Two this season.

The 27-year-old is due to undergo a hernia operation but will be fit in time for pre-season in July.

Hodgson, meanwhile, appears to have cooled his interest in Scunthorpe winger Peter Beagrie.

The 38-year-old is keen to finish his career in the North-East with Quakers after stalling on a new contract offer at Glanford Park.

However, Hodgson is unsure as to how the experienced playmaker would fit into his plans.

"We have spoken to Peter and I'm a huge fan," said Hodgson. "He has stacks of ability but I'm not sure where exactly he would play in our system.

"We cannot rule anything out at this stage so we will just have to wait and see."

And when Hodgson returns from a family holiday in a fortnight's time, he will hope to welcome at least three new faces.

Dean Windass, Stephen Thomas and Sam Russell have all agreed deals but have yet to sign.

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