Darlington are still sweating on the international clearance of their three French signings.

The trio, Jean-Michel Cau, Alexandre Jeannin and Abraham Keita, have completed the relevant paperwork in Darlington and signed contracts until the end of the season, but last night they were still awaiting clearance from their old clubs across the Channel.

Darlington football director Luke Raine said: "We're not anticipating any problems, but these things can take time."

And time might not be on Darlington's side, as the players must be registered by 5pm tonight.

Meanwhile, manager Gary Bennett won't be throwing them in at the deep end against Scunthorpe on Saturday, should everything go through today.

"I won't be putting them straight into the team on Saturday," said Bennett.

"The team we put out at Kidderminster last Saturday did well, and the same players are available for this week.

"The new players will give us some more scope and will strengthen the squad, especially as we have two games per week all the way through to the end of April.

"We've been very interested in the central defender, who can play on the left side of the defence, while the other two are young lads who have a good chance of coming on."

There could still be another signing before tonight's 5 pm deadline.

Bennett knows that Quakers are taking a risk with keeper Peter Keen, who could be recalled by fellow strugglers Carlisle at short notice, and leave him with just youngster Keith Finch to play between the posts.

First choice Andy Collett is going to be out for at least another fortnight because of a broken thumb, while his deputy, Frank Van Der Geest, is out for the season with a back injury.

"We're aware that Carlisle might want Peter back, so that position is something we're looking at.

"Our problem is that we can't bring in another loan player, because we have the two we're allowed already."

Meanwhile, Saturday's opponents Scunthorpe are chasing former Darlington striker Martin Carruthers, but Southend are asking for around £100,000.