Boss Joe Royle says he expects keeper Lewis Price to be fit for Saturday's second home game of the season against Sheffield Wednesday. Price was forced off at Leicester last weekend with an injured left knee after a clash with Mark De Vries.

Royle says Price is making good progress: "Lewis would not be able to play at the moment but the swelling is going down and he is improving fast. I expect him to be fit on Saturday."

If Price doesn't make it then Shane Supple will continue between the sticks after making his debut as a sub at the Walkers Stadium.

Supple was the second member of the FA Youth Cup-winning side to make his senior bow this season and Royle expects other players to break through as the season progresses: "There will be lots of opportunities for our young players.

"All our academy boys and youngsters are doing well and there were some impressive displays in the home reserve win over Portsmouth on Monday."

Royle was particularly impressed with Dean McDonald's performance prior to the former Arsenal trainee injuring an ankle in the second half, while the Town manager was pleased to see Scott Barron back in action after the full-back or midfielder's lengthy spell out due to groin surgery.

Aidan Collins also played a full 90 minutes against Pompey and could be included in Royle's squad as defensive cover with Jason De Vos still out for at least another week.

McDonald, Barron and Collins could all play a part in Tuesday's home Carling Cup tie with Yeovil Town.

Royle continues to look for another defensive addition to his squad, almost certainly a season-long loanee or a free transfer.

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