BRADFORD CITY'S loss is Darlington's gain as neighbours Middlesbrough pay their first visit to the Williamson Motors Stadium in Craig Liddle's testimonial game this afternoon.

The Teessiders' decision to cancel a second friendly at Valley Parade on the same day means Steve McClaren can afford to field a full-strength line-up as Liddle is honoured by his former clubs.

McClaren pulled the plug on the Bradford game on Thursday due to injuries, although Boro will still boast an array of big-name stars today, including new £7.5m signing Yakubu.

And, as Quakers step up their League Two preparations, boss David Hodgson believes McClaren's men will provide a tough test.

"As far as I know Middlesbrough will be sending their strongest possible squad, which is excellent preparation for us in terms of fitness and how the squad is shaping up," said Hodgson.

"It's a big occasion for Lids but the game also has a purpose for us, with reference to assessing certain areas.

"I'm sure it will be another useful workout and I'm sure Middlesbrough will provide us with a very difficult game."

Before the Boro game kicks off at 3pm, Liddle will be joined by a host of former Quakers' stars, including Marco Gabbiadini and Bernie Slaven, to take on a Supporters' XI at 12.45pm.

Liddle will then make an emotional final appearance for Quakers when he will play part of the first half against his other former club.

Seven-and-a-half years after persuading Liddle to swap the Premiership for the old Third Division, Hodgson will be the first to applaud the 33-year-old's service this afternoon.

"Lids has been a fantastic servant to the club down the years and he deserves his big day," said Hodgson.

"He is one of the most committed players you will ever come across and fans recognised that.

"He gave everything for Darlington Football Club and the fact he played through the pain barrier on so many occasions showed just how much the club meant to him."

Trialist Anthony Peacock will get a chance to impress against his former club today, while midfielder Nathan Jameson will play some part after earning a second week on trial.

Hodgson may still follow up his interest in former Watford winger Andy Ferrell.

The 21-year-old was invited to play in last week's friendly at Barrow but had already agreed to play for Forest Green Rovers in a friendly at Weymouth.

However, the Newcastle-born player could yet return to the North-East for a second trial after impressing Hodgson during Quakers' friendly win at Harrogate nine days ago.

Ticket prices are £10 adults, £5 juniors, £7 senior citizens/students.

Darlington (from): Russell, Valentine, Kendrick, Appleby, Clarke, Hutchinson, Wainwright, Webster, Wijnhard, Dickman, Johnson, Maddison, Thomas, McGurk, Sodje, Mason, Duke, Peacock, Jameson

Middlesbrough (from): Schwarzer, Jones, Parnaby, Reiziger, Queudrue, Southgate, Ehiogu, Bates, Hines, Liddle, Parlour, Johnson, Doriva, Boateng, Mendieta, Yakubu, Viduka, Nemeth, Kennedy.

* Darlington are today giving away 5,000 free pies in concourses around the ground.

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