DAVID HODGSON will be seeking a positive response from his players at Kidderminster Harriers tonight.

Darlington begin the LDV Vans trophy trail at the Aggborough Stadium, with Hodgson still reeling from Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Bury.

The performance was described by assistant manager Mark Proctor as 'inept' and prompted Hodgson to hold a lengthy meeting with his players the next day.

"Nine players put their hand up and admitted they didn't perform at Bury, which is completely unacceptable," said Hodgson.

"It's not fair on the coaching staff, but most of all it's not fair on the supporters who paid to come down and watch us on Saturday.

"The players need to realise that they are professionals, without being arrogant and taking the club for granted.

"We have a very good young squad, but some don't seem to have the same hunger to win that the likes of Sean Gregan once had for us."

Hodgson felt the brunt of criticism from visiting fans at Bury, but is adamant an upturn in fortunes is on the way.

"The supporters have every right to voice their opinions and I can completely sympathise with them after Saturday," said Hodgson.

"I will gladly take responsibility for the result, but what I can't be responsible for is individuals not performing.

"I have every faith we will turn things around and we will be in the top seven by Christmas."

Tonight Hodgson's men can redress the balance, albeit in the less salubrious surroundings of the LDV Vans Trophy. But the competition is one Hodgson is taking seriously.

He said: "This is just as important as any other game and one we have to win. It's also an opportunity for some players to get Saturday out of their system.

"We have another important game against Cheltenham on Saturday and beating Kidderminster would provide a massive lift."

Hodgson will be fielding his strongest possible line-up tonight, with midfielder Anthony Peacock expected to return to the starting XI after a thigh injury.

However, winger Carlos Logan (Achilles), Phil Stamp (ankle) and Jonjo Dickman (stomach) will not feature against Kidderminster, who were relegated from the Football League last season.

Hodgson will keep faith with a 3-5-2 formation, with the return of Peacock likely to be the only change to the side, which lost at Bury three days ago. Youngsters Mark McLeod and Gavin Parkin travel with the squad and could earn places on the bench.

DARLINGTON: Russell, Martis, Hutchinson, Clarke, Wainwright, Peacock, Appleby, Webster, Valentine, Ndumbu-Nsungu, Johnson.

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