Doncaster Rovers v Acrington Stanley: Rovers already down to the bare minimum

DONCASTER Rovers manager Sean O'Driscoll has just 15 senior professionals available for tonight's game in the Carling Cup.

Midfielder Brian Stock is away on international duty with Wales, summer signing Simon Gillett is serving a one-game ban, and midfielder James Coppinger has joined an injury list that already included John Oster, Mark Wilson, James Chambers and Byron Webster

"We will struggle to fill the bench and that highlights the need to strengthen our squad," said O'Driscoll. "We need to have one eye on the next league game against Bristol City and may well have to address things before the weekend."

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Former West Ham United midfielder Josh Payne, an unused substitute against Preston North End at the weekend, is likely to make his debut.

O'Driscoll is still chasing former Burnley defender Wayne Thomas, who is out of contract after being released by Southampton this summer.

Accrington, meanwhile, are competing in the League Cup for only the fifth time and have yet to win a tie away from home.

"They are a team with nothing to lose," said O'Driscoll. "But they played Leeds United last season in the JPT so they won't be overawed."

Last six games: Rovers LLDWDW, Accrington LLWWDD.

Last time: Rovers 2 Accrington 0; November 28, 2006; JP Trophy Northern Section, quarter-final.

Referee: NS Miller (County Durham).