DAVID Hodgson is expected to turn to released Gillingham defender Chris Hope if contract talks with skipper Matt Clarke fail to reach a successful conclusion.

Clarke's current deal is up for renewal and Hodgson has identified Hope as a replacement.

Ideally, Hodgson would like to retain the services of Clarke, but has admitted he would not stand in the 25-year-old's way if he is offered an improved deal elsewhere.

Notts County are long-term admirers of Clarke, while Port Vale have recently been credited with an interest in the former Halifax defender.

Hope, brother of ex-Darlington defender Richard, is available after the 33-year-old was one of five players released by Gillingham.

And sources close to the player believe Hodgson is lining up talks with the Sheffield-born defender later this week.

Another defensive alternative for Hodgson is David McGurk, who has been offered a one-year deal.

But, having struggled to hold down a regular place under Hodgson, the 23-year-old will carefully consider his options.

"If I was to stay at Darlington, I would need assurances that I was going to play more of a part next season," said McGurk.

The Teessider enjoyed a successful loan spell at York City last season, where he was voted supporters' player of the year.

And while McGurk would like to prove himself at a higher level, he has refused to rule out a return to KitKat Crescent.

"My preference is to stay in the League but I enjoyed it at York last season and I'm not closing the door on a return," revealed McGurk.

"Any decision would not just be about money - it would be about enjoying my football and playing on a regular basis."

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