Rushden manager Justin Edinburgh has no new injuries to contend with for the derby clash against Kettering.Defender Simon Downer should recover from an injury picked up at Oxford, but Neil Cousins is out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Kettering strike Damian Spencer could play after the expiry of his loan spell at league rivals Kidderminster.

Spencer is added to a full-strength squad as the Poppies look to overtake Rushden and move into the top five.

Rushden & Diamonds assistant manager Michael Stone told BBC Radio Northampton: "We know it will be a difficult game - Kettering always has that added spice.

No change in preparation - Stone

"After winning the derby 1-0 (last season) I was taken aback by the response from the supporters. I remember going into the bar and us getting a standing ovation.

"We'll prepare properly and hope to pick up three points which are much-needed as we look to stay up there."

Kettering Town player-manager Lee Harper told BBC Radio Northampton:

"Lee Tomlin will be an asset for them but they're good all-round. With Jefferson Louis and Aaron O'Connor they've got a bit of everything up front.

"But we're close to having one of the best defences in the division.

"It'll be a fantastic game and it's one game I really wanted to play in. I'll make sure the boys are up for this one."

Source: BBC Sport