DAVID HODGSON believes competition for places is bringing the best out of his squad and has warned that no-one's position is assured in his Darlington side.

Hodgson has added nine players to his Quakers squad this season, eight of whom featured in Saturday's 2-2 draw at Mansfield.

While the likes of Clyde Wijnhard and Adrian Webster, first-team regulars last season, have struggled to hold down a place this campaign, Hodgson insists those out of the side can have as much of an impact as those in it.

"It's a fantastic situation to be in when those out of the side are keeping others on their toes," said Hodgson.

"We have competition in all areas and if somebody isn't performing to the best of their ability there is always someone else waiting to capitalise.

"There are two or three who were regulars for us last season who are now finding it hard to get into the side, which is great.

"It's up to them to work hard in training and keep pushing those who are in the side."

Hodgson stressed that Wijnhard can force his way back into his starting XI as long as he continues to show the right attitude.

Wijnhard turned down a loan move to Mansfield on Tuesday to fight for his Quakers' place.

"I've had a very good response from Clyde in training while he's been out of the side," said Hodgson.

"He has shown to me that he's willing to fight for his place and his chance will come again."

Guylain Ndumbu-Nsungu is also pushing hard for a starting place for the visit of Oxford United this weekend after coming off the bench to score his third goal of the season at Mansfield.

"Guy is another good example of those desperate for a start," said Hodgson. "He's scored three goals coming off the bench now so he's given me something to think about."

Meanwhile, Brian Close will step up his rehabilitation at the National Sports Centre in Lilleshall next week.

The 23-year-old, who has yet to play this season after undergoing an ankle operation during the summer, is expected to be sidelined for another month.

Wijnhard and Webster both featured in the Darlington Reserves side beaten 4-1 by Lincoln City at home last night, the Dutch striker setting up Quakers' goal, scored by Gavin Parkin.

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