COLNE manager Nigel Coates has admitted he is struggling to bring in fresh players even though his squad is down to the bare bones.

The Holt House boss is having to battle on although he is again without five key players for the visit of Congleton.

Paul Walker, Matt Pendergast and Chris Ingham are all injured, Michael Cruz is unavailable while Steve Cunningham is still suspended.

Coates said: "We are really stretched at the moment and it has been like that for the past couple of weeks.

"We seem to get one player back then two more drop out.

"Unfortunately, we are not in the position to be able to bring in new players."

Despite the lack of resources, Coates has been delighted with his team's performances in the last few weeks - including Wednesday's 2-2 draw with high-flying Salford City.

"Considering we were 2-0 down after 15 minutes I was delighted in the way the lads fought back against Salford who are second in the league. The team has played well in the last couple of weeks and that is something we can take heart from.

"Congleton are another team who are above us so this will be another big test."