RELEASED Middlesbrough goalkeeper Sam Russell has agreed to join Darlington on a free transfer.

But the switch will not be finalised until Quakers' financial future has been resolved. The 21-year-old has verbally agreed a one-year deal.

Despite the club's precarious financial situation, the Quakers boss has been given the go-ahead to plan for next season.

Middlesbrough-born Russell - who made one appearance on loan at Quakers last season - is deemed surplus to requirements at the Riverside after failing to make a single appearance for his hometown club.

Hodgson has been keen to bring in an extra pair of hands as cover for Michael Price after Andy Collett was forced to retire.

"For a club in our position it is difficult for players to commit themselves," said Hodgson. "Until there are assurances that this football club is going to be safe players will look elsewhere.

"I've spoken to several players about coming here and they understand the situation.

"We've reached an agreement with Sam (Russell) and he should be with us next season."

Quakers have received no fresh approaches for top scorer Barry Conlon.

The 14-goal striker is out of contract in the summer and Hodgson is resigned to losing his services, with Tranmere and Notts County interested.

Hodgson, however, will hand Leandro Scartascini the chance to earn a permanent deal during Quakers' pre-season programme.

The Argentinian impressed on trial with the club earlier this season and Hodgson is keen to take another look at the teenager.

The Quakers boss will also run the rule over FC Wacker Tirol striker Hannes Aigner, who is available on a free transfer.

Meanwhile, the club has confirmed Peterborough United will visit the Neasham Road stadium in a pre-season friendly on July 31.

Quakers have also announced 'Select XI' trips to Whitby Town (July 12), Durham City (July 14), Bishop Auckland (July 20), Billingham Synthonia (July 28) and Barrow (July 30).

The first team will face Middlesbrough in a behind closed doors game at Rockliffe Park on July 17, before hosting Bradford City four days later and Leeds United on July 27.

* Lincoln manager Keith Alexander hopes his personal conquest in the face of life-threatening adversity can inspire his players to the Nationwide Third Division play-off final.

As the Imps prepare for the semi-final, first-leg clash at home to Huddersfield today, Alexander can reflect upon another successful season as his side have reached the play-offs for a second consecutive campaign.

However, for all the plaudits he has received in guiding City to another top-seven finish, Alexander endured chilling personal upheaval last year which sent shockwaves through the football community.

Late in November 2003, the Lincoln boss collapsed at his home with a double aneurysm and had to undergo emergency brain surgery. For a time, his condition was critical but thankfully he made a remarkably quick recovery and is back doing what he does best: leading from the front.

''After everything that's gone on this season - what with my ill health and all that - it would be nice to finish the season off with a trip to the Millennium Stadium,'' admitted Alexander.

''Hopefully the players can use it as a bit of inspiration,"

Read more about the Quakers here.