Darlington's hopes for the new season were given a massive boost last night with the news that goalkeeper Andy Collett has declared himself fit.

The No 1 has admitted there's a "fair chance" he'll be fit in time to face Hull City on the opening day of the season in just over a fortnight's time after tests revealed no tear on a shoulder injury.

There were fears Collett would face at least three months on the sidelines but after undergoing an operation on Friday, further examinations have shown only ligament damage.

"Andy has told me he feels OK which is really good news," said Tait. "He reckons there's a fair chance he'll be ready for the first game of the season. It's almost like making a new signing for me.

"I was devastated when we thought he might be out for months but the operation has went well and it will be great to have him back."

Tait is still keen to bring another goalkeeper to the club as back-up for Collett and has not ruled out a move for trialist Michael Price, who has featured in all three of Quakers' pre-season friendlies.

"We've got Michael in at the moment and he's doing OK," said Tait.

"He hasn't had an awful lot to do in the games he's played in because our defence has played so well.

"We still have a couple of weeks to go so we should have more of an idea then."

Price will be tested tonight when Quakers head to Scottish First Division side Queen of the South.

Mark Convery and Chris Hughes are missing after struggling with strains while Mark Sheeran remains doubtful with an ankle injury picked up during the weekend draw with Durham.

Tait is expected to hand a start to Sunderland-born striker Glen Robson.

The 25-year-old, who played for Blyth last season, is currently a free agent and has already attracted interest from Second Division Oldham.

But Tait has admitted Danny Mellanby's hopes of a swift return look slim.

The forward suffered a suspected broken rib at Durham and looks set to be sidelined for up to six weeks.

"He's been told with the amount of pain he's in there's a good chance he's cracked it," said Tait.

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