Town boss Joe Royle says he will make changes to his side for the FA Cup third round tie against Bolton Wanderers but won't be fielding a reserve side packed with youngsters. Striker Dean Bowditch looks likely to be amongst the players coming into contention for a starting place.
Royle told the club site that after the busy Christmas period there are players in need of a rest: "We will be looking at making changes for the Bolton match.
"It's been a heavy schedule of games over the last week or so and we will mix it up a bit. But it won't be a case of putting in a load of the youngsters. We may bring one or two into the squad but it will be minimal."
The Town squad got back into training today after having a couple of days off to recover from their Christmas exertions, which saw them to two points clear at the top of Championship.
Bowditch has been unlucky not to get more games in the first half of the season and could replace Darren Bent, whose form has slipped in recent matches. The much-coveted frontman may be feeling the pressure of the transfer speculation which has surrounded him since the summer.
Skipper Jim Magilton was a sub in two of the holiday games and could again be rested. Arsenal loanee Daniel Karbassiyoon will not be involved as the Gunners don't want him cup-tied. Matt Richards looks certain to return to the starting line-up.
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce is likely to field a very much understrength side, having played virtually a reserve team in the FA Cup in recent years.