By Neil Ravenscroft
October 21 2003

Yesterday, Colin Lee said that we are relying too much on Paul Merson. We'll have another chance to win away without him tonight. The Express & Star are reporting that the scan Merson went for yesterday has shown a strained abductor muscle and he will be out tonight.

Merson says he has been experiencing some pain for a few weeks, but it worsened last week and he thought it needed a rest.

Although out tonight, he should be fit for the big weekend game against league leaders, Wigan.

The other doubt for tonight, according to the Star, is Jorge Leitao, who will face a late fitness test on an injury he picked up on Saturday. If he fails to make it, presumably either Fryatt will take his place, or Corica in the Merson role off the lone striker.