Former Everton and Arsenal midfielder Kevin Richardson will play for Quakers tonight in their latest pre-season friendly at Norton.

Richardson, 37, has been training with Quakers during their pre-season build up and is looking to continue his career.

But according to Darlington boss David Hodgson, it is "unlikely" that Richardson will be joining on a permanent basis.

"He's keeping fit and helping us out at the same time," said Hodgson."

"He's keeping his options open in case an opportunity to continue playing comes up, but it's unlikely we'll be signing him."

Gary Himsworth, Jesper Hjorth and Brian Atkinson are also expected to play at Norton tonight.

"I want to give some of the players who didn't play much in the Isle of Man a game," said Hodgson, who has more games at Ashington on Thursday and the weekend double header at Scarborough to think about before Quakers' Third Division campaign kicks off at Rochdale on August 12.

However, youngster Gary Williamson won't be playing because of injury.

A frustrated Hodgson drew a blank yesterday in his search for new blood, which would help dispel some of the growing anxiety among the fans.

"I'm working hard on trying to bring in new faces, but it's very difficult," he said