GRAHAM Haworth could be ready to throw top scorer Ian Pilkington in to the starting line up for Padiham's trip to Winsford.

It is a timely boost for the Arbories outfit, currently in fourth place, as they look to put pressure on the top three in NWCL Division Two.

Pilkington, Padiham's leading scorer for the past few seasons, has had a lengthy spell out of the game with a serious knee injury. But following a goal-scoring return for the reserves before Christmas and cameo roles in recent games against Darwen and Colne, Haworth says his hitman could be ready to start.

Haworth said: "Ian has come on in our last two games and has had no reaction to the knee injury. It's great to have him back and he could be ready to start at Winsford."

In Pilkington's absence, free-scoring midfielder James Gill has led the goal charge, scoring two more in the 3-3 draw at Colne last weekend.

Haworth said he is looking forward to having both players in his team.

"James is more of a midfield player but it would be great to have the two of them playing alongside each other. He's done a great job since he has come here and has scored some vital goals."

Padiham have also been boosted by the return of defender Carl Parker and Anthony McCluskie. Craig Wilkinson is also on the comeback trail but will not feature at Winsford.