Cod Almighty | Diary

Diary - Friday 8 November 2002

8 November 2002

Town fans still reeling from the shock departure of Steve Kabba yesterday can take solace in the news that Paul Groves and Steve Chettle may be available for tomorrow's visit to Stoke. Both played 50 minutes of a specially arranged reserve match against Sheffield United yesterday, which Town won 3-2 with two of the goals coming from American trialist Jake Sagare. Groves may replace the suspended Alan Pouton in midfield. Darren Mansaram is expected to take Kabba's place up front, which could in turn spell a return to the 16 for young forward Jonny Rowan, who has been in prolific form for the reserves lately.

New Stoke manager Tony Pulis is pondering whether to start with Chris Greenacre up front. The highly-rated forward joined the Potters on a Bosman in the summer but is only now returning to action after an ankle injury that has kept him out for most of the season. Dutch winger Peter Hoekstra is also in contention for a recall after recovering from a calf strain.

"I know I'm going back to Palace but I think I'll only end up sat on the bench and I don't want that. I was starting at Grimsby and that's what I needed, to play and score goals." That's what the Grimsby Telegraph claims is Steve Kabba's feeling on his imminent return to Crystal Palace. We wanted you to play and score goals for Grimsby too, Steve.