Darlington striker Barry Conlon has vowed to score the goals that will ensure Third Division safety, but admitted his place is anything but assured.

Quakers welcome back top scorer Conlon for this weekend's visit of struggling Shrewsbury after a two-match suspension.

And, selection permitting, the big Irishman has a goalscoring return in his sights as Quakers look to increase their seven-point cushion above the bottom two.

"We have five games left and hopefully if I get my chance I can help out with a few goals," said Conlon. "It's not going to be easy because the lads who have came in have done a great job."

And while Conlon is quick to praise the likes of Jim Corbett and Danny Mellanby it is an injury to the latter which could pave the way for his return.

Mellanby remains a major doubt after limping off after just 22 minutes at Southend with a dead leg.

"It seems like ages the last time I played so it will be nice to be involved again," said Conlon.

"It is frustrating to be out especially at such a crucial stage of the season when we're needing points.

"The sooner we get three points the better so we can enjoy what's left of the season.

"It's just a case of getting those points on the board because we still need them.

"It's been a disappointing season and I feel for the fans because they've been absolutely brilliant."

And Conlon believes the 17 games Quakers have drawn this season has done little to help their cause.

"We've let ourselves down badly with the amount of draws we've had," said Conlon.

"If we'd have had a bit more luck at the start of the season we might have taken a few more points.

"It's so easy to get sucked down into the bottom half of the table as we've found out.

"All you can do is keep plugging away."

* Former Quakers defender Paul Heckingbottom has been told he can leave Norwich on a free transfer, just nine months after joining the club.

Heckingbottom, who started his career at Sunderland, has made just seven appearances for the Canaries since leaving Feethams last summer.

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