Shane Supple, Town's impressive 16-year-old Irish goalkeeper, could be fit by the weekend, reducing Joe Royle's need to bring in short-term keeper cover.

Supple has had a knee injury for a fortnight but could be fit enough to take his place on the bench against Norwich.

The highly-rated Ireland U17 stopper recently made his debut for the reserves as a sub in the 0-0 draw with Portsmouth after Lewis Price had been sent off.

He retained his place for the 3-0 loss to Spurs, Price missing out due to a one-match suspension.

With Supple inexperienced at reserve level, Joe Royle is considering bringing in a short-term replacement for Price who could be out for up to nine weeks with a finger ligament problem.

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