Butler to play on

Last updated : 18 October 2005 By Daniel Elwes
Butler
Butler was taken off after 45 minutes of Saturday's 2-2 draw with Rotherham at Glanford Park.

He conceded an own goal after three minutes, and Laws replaced him after feeling he had 'collapsed'.

But Butler will keep his place in the starting XI, and will partner Andy Crosby in a bid to boost his confidence.

Laws said: "I might be resting one or two, but I think it's more important if Andy (Butler) plays, rather than resting him

"We've no new injuries, so I'll be picking from a strong squad.

"I'm not having a go at Andy, because he is a bloody good player. But he's also still a very young one with a lot of things to learn.

"We have got to be patient with him and help him get back to where he was."

Midfielder Richie Ryan will make his return following a suspension for violent conduct, while summer signing Tommy Johnson will also get a rare taste fo first team action.

Laws could also be tempted to hand starting places to Tommy Evans, Lee Ridley, Cleveland Taylor and Andy Parton.

Hartlepool will be without defender Micky Nelson, who starts a three match ban after being red carded against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Pools also have doubts over Michael Proctor, Anthony Sweeney and Stephen Turnbull.

Martin Scott will name a weakend side for the clash, but is still going for the win.

He said: " Story continues "We will have to make changes, and it is a chance for others to stake a claim.

"It is an important game for us, we need to try to win it.

"The League is our bread and butter, but winning games and playing well becomes a habit and that's what I want."