STRIKER Matthew Tipton could be in line for a recall at Rushden and Diamonds this evening after coming through a full 90 minutes for the reserves.

The former Oldham and Macclesfield man's groin problem has shown no reaction following the 5-0 defeat to Manchester United in the Manchester Senior Cup, and he will compete for a starting berth with Allan Smart, Jon Newby, Tom Youngs and Simon Whaley.

Tipton has been missing for three games with his injury and his last outing was the 1-1 home draw against Boston United on September 17.

The club currently sit in the Coca Cola League Two relegation places after 12 games, so the Welshman's predatory instincts could be a real boost for the Gigg Lane men who have the second-worst goals scored record in the division.

And caretaker boss Chris Casper will be acutely aware that the result at Nene Park could seriously affect his chances of landing the manager's job full time with directors expected to decide who the new incumbent will be over the next few days.

Last season's game in Northamptonshire was a nightmare for the Shakers who were battered 4-0 after a miserable performance.

And that's another reason why Casper will be looking for a big improvement from last Saturday's game against Lincoln when even he admitted his side were fortunate to grab a point.

"Last week was disappointing but at least we battled and got something from the game. That was important," he said.

"We put in a lot of effort in the previous game against Bristol but didn't hit the standards we did that night.

"There needs to be more consistency about our game.

"Rushden have had a season similar to us so it's important we get something down there."

The Shakers board are preparing for a round of interviews for the vacant managerial role at Gigg Lane.

It has been 17 days since previous boss Graham Barrow was relieved of his duties, and since then, club officials have been impressed with the credentials of applicants for the post.

Current caretaker boss Chris Casper is favourite to take on the role, after impressing during his short tenure.

Among the other candidates for the position are former Shakers players, Paul Hilton and Peter Farrell, both involved as academy coaches, assistant Gillingham boss Ronnie Jepson, former Northern Ireland legend Sammy McIlroy, ex-Stockport County boss Andy Kilner and former Welsh international Leighton James.

Former Reading, Swindon and Shrewsbury boss Jimmy Quinn, Oldham youth coach John Sheridan and Northwich Victoria manager Steve Burr are also believed to be in the frame - although he is currently under contract.