When it comes to consistency, Welsh defender Ryan Valentine is an exception to the Darlington rule.

The Wrexham-born 23-year-old has sustained an impressive run of form so far this season, which is more than can be said for most of David Hodgson's squad.

Valentine has clocked up 154 appearances since moving to Quakers on a free transfer during the summer of 2002.

But this season has been Valentine's best for the club and assistant boss Mark Proctor admits the former Everton trainee's form has not gone unnoticed.

"I think few would disagree that Ryan has been one of our more consistent performers," said Proctor. "He does the simple things, but he does them well.

"Ryan is still a young lad, but he has a very good understanding of the game, which he has shown on many occasions this season.

"If he can sustain that kind of form then it can only be a good thing for the rest of the team."

Valentine has started every game this season, although that run will be broken on Saturday. The former Wales Under-21 international picked up his fifth booking of the season at Shrewsbury and will serve a one-match ban for the visit of second-placed Grimsby.

Valentine's absence could pave the way for Brian Close to make only his second start of the season at right-back.

It could take up to six weeks for Tresor Kandol to make a full recover from a shoulder injury, although the striker will be available to face Grimsby. Kandol suffered a sprain after he was involved in a car accident nine days ago.

Goalkeeper Sam Russell is making good progress and is due to return next month. Russell suffered a hairline fracture of the fibula after a collision with Kandol in training last month.

* Darlington's reserve side drew 0-0 with Grimsby's second string last night.

Read more about the Quakers here.