RAMSBOTTOM are down on numbers for tomorrow's League Challenge Cup first round game against Salford City.

But defiant manager Andy Grimshaw doesn't want to be down on his luck.

The Rams chief is looking forward to handing Mark Stewart his first start since signing from Clitheroe, and he has been a welcome addition to the injury-hit side.

No less than seven players have been occupying the treatment table, including Luke Hardman, Matty Swailes and Chris Clarke, which means Danny Heys will still have to take a place on the bench despite struggling himself with a calf strain.

And Grimshaw may even have to put his own name down on the teamsheet unless Gareth Gardner returns to the side.

Gardner hasn't been in touch with his manager since being substituted with 25 minutes of last week's match against Squires Gate to go.

"I'm not chasing players - I've done enough of that this season," Grimshaw said.

"If it's not sorted out I will go on the bench."

Former Chorley manager Mark Molyneaux will continue in goal following an impressive display last weekend.

Danny Goodall starts a 21-day suspension after tomorrow's game.