DAVID HODGSON is facing a goalkeeper headache after watching Sam Russell come through a practice match without any problems yesterday.

The Darlington boss may have to choose between his first-choice stopper and Kasper Schmeichel for Saturday's visit of Mansfield Town.

Russell, sidelined since November with a fractured fibula, will undergo further fitness tests before Hodgson decides on the future of Schmeichel.

The 19-year-old Dane has made a favourable impression during three loan appearances for Quakers.

Hodgson has hinted that, even if Russell is near to full fitness, Schmeichel could make his final appearance on Saturday, before returning to Manchester City.

"It's great to see Sam back involved again," said Hodgson. "It's given us a bit of a dilemma to address over the next couple of days.

"Kasper has been fantastic in the three games he has played and there is a chance he could go back next week."

As well as monitoring the fitness of Russell, Hodgson also ran the rule over three trialists yesterday.

Spanish winger Juanjo, former Dinamo Kiev midfielder Dmytro Pronevych and Australian Chris Triantis all played after linking up with the squad this week.

It is unlikely that Hodgson will be following up his interest in Kilmarnock's Pronevych, although Juanjo and midfielder Triantis - who has also had a trial with Middlesbrough - will remain with the club.

Juanjo has been made available for transfer by Inverness Caledonian Thistle after making just two appearances in the Scottish Premier League this season. The Barcelona-born 28-year-old has also played for Hearts and Bradford City.

Hodgson is also hoping to bring South African striker Dale Studzinski to the club on trial. The 26-year-old recently trained with Derby County but failed to impress.

Meanwhile, defender David McGurk yesterday re-joined York City on loan for the remainder of the season.

McGurk has already made 22 appearances for the Minstermen this season and recently returned to Darlington.

But, despite appearing twice for Quakers, the 23-year-old has been allowed to return to Kit-Kat Crescent for a third loan spell.

"It would have been selfish of us to keep David when York can guarantee him a start every week," said Hodgson.

Read more about the Quakers here.