Darlington manager David Hodgson last night welcomed goalkeeper Andy Collett's return to training, but warned he faces a fight to retain his place in the side.

The former Middlesbrough and Bristol Rovers keeper has not played since suffering a punctured lung in September.

Understudy Michael Price has proved a more than able replacement, according to Hodgson.

"I've been delighted with Pricey," said Hodgson. "He's only a young lad but in the games I've seen him in he's done very well. Football is all about taking chances and that's exactly what he's done.

"What he must do now is make it difficult for me to leave him out."

Collett trained with Mick Tait's youth team yesterday and is scheduled to return this month.

Hodgson could decide today on whether to appeal against Barry Conlon and Ryan Valentine's dismissals at the weekend.

Both were sent off for violent conduct in Saturday's controversial 2-2 draw with Scunthorpe, which carries an automatic three-match ban.

"I haven't looked at the video yet but when I do I'll be able to make a decision," said Hodgson.

"From what I have been able to see we might appeal against one of them. It's unfortunate that we may lose two players especially in the circumstances they were sent off.

"Their player certainly made a meal out of it, but it's gone now and we have to get on with it and concentrate on our next game."

Quakers have no fresh injury worries ahead of Saturday's visit of York City, with experienced duo Craig Liddle and skipper Neil Maddison fit despite taking knocks.

Quakers could yet be boosted by at least one new face in time for the weekend with Hodgson continuing to work around the clock in a bid to strengthen his side, who have now failed to win in 12 games.

Hodgson gave his squad the day off yesterday following their bruising encounter with The Iron and was due to run the rule over a player at last night's reserve clash between Newcastle United and Manchester City, but the game was rained off.

* Sheffield United manager Neil Warnock celebrated his 55th birthday yesterday by being named the Nationwide Division One manager of the month for November.

The Blades have taken ten points from a possible 15, which has lifted them to third, three points behind leaders West Brom.

Warnock said: ''It is a lovely present. It is also four years to the day since I took over at Bramall Lane.

''There were some very tricky games in the month and we have also had to put up with a few significant injuries.

''The award is not just for me but for everyone at the club who are all pulling in the same direction.''

QPR manager Ian Holloway landed the second division award with his side sitting at the summit.

The Loftus Road outfit have scooped 13 points from 15 and are a point clear of Plymouth.

Former England defender Keith Curle landed the Third Division award after steering Mansfield to third place.

The Stags took ten points from four games.