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FA Cup returns?

3/12/2003

LATICS hope to welcome four midfielders back to action for the FA Cup Second Round game at home to Blackpool this weekend.

Midfield playmaker John Sheridan has now completed a three-match suspension and is likely to start the game.

Paul Murray's recovery from a hamstring injury is progressing well and both he and club captain David Eyres (broken foot) are in contention. Danny Boshell, a late withdrawal from last weekend's squad with flu should also return.

Dowie said: "John Sheridan moves people around, talks the game and plays the pass at the right time.

"It's a shame to have to rely on someone like that but, at the moment, that's where we are. It will be key to have him back but Blackpool will be all fired up and I will expect the same from my team."

Definitely out for Latics is Mark Hudson - Fulham had refused permission for him to participate but his fifth booking of the season against Notts County would have ruled him out.

His one-match ban sees him miss the trip to Colchester United.

However, Bolton, Newcastle and Manchester City have given permission for Jermaine Johnson, Calvin Zola and Kieren Westwood to feature on Saturday.

The Seasiders received a boost ahead of last week's 1-0 victory over Bristol City with the news that on-loan keeper Brad Jones agreed a new one-month loan spell.

The Australian, who had a loan spell at Stockport County last season, gives Steve McMahon added cover in goal.

• LATICS are reminding fans that Saturday's FA Cup tie is pay on the day.

Tickets are £16 adults and £8 concessions for the main stand (upper), Lookers stand (upper), Chaddy End and Rochdale Road End is £16 adults and £8 concessions.

The Lookers paddocks is £12 and £7, with the main stand paddocks £15 and £8.