ACCRINGTON Stanley boss John Coleman is hoping to welcome defender Dean Winnard back into his squad for Saturday's League Two home clash with Cambridge United.

The centre back has not featured for the Reds since November after picking up an ankle injury during the 2-2 draw with Newport County.

But the 29-year-old trained with his teammates this week and is awaiting the all-clear from a specialist ahead of the weekend.

"Dean Winnard is to see the specialist and hopefully he will get the all clear to be involved. He trained on Wednesday fine, no problems," said Coleman.

The clash with Shaun Derry's side will come too soon for Matt Crooks as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury while defender Joe Wright also remains sidelined with a knee problem.

The return of Josh Windass and others in recent weeks means Coleman is facing selection dilemmas heading into the final few weeks of the season

But the Reds chief had reassurances for those players not involved in recent games.

"You feel for the players who aren't involved because they have to go going week-in week-out and keep themselves in tip top condition for when they are called upon and they have been called upon," said Coleman.

"There will be lots of twists and turns and I am sure people who aren't featuring at the moment might unexpectedly be the ones who can solve a problem.

"History has shown you in the past that when players get in they are capable of keeping their place. Luke Joyce was on the sidelines for a long time but then once he grabbed his opportunity he came in and got a raft of games.

"Billy Kee is a classic example, he wasn't in the side at the start of the season but he has worked hard at his game and worked hard at his fitness and he has kept the shirt that he has earned."