Darlington yesterday closed in on the signing of former Newcastle United striker Guy Bates.

Pending international clearance, Bates will go into the squad for tomorrow's game at Boston.

The 20-year-old has agreed to join Quakers on a short-term deal until June - two months after linking up with the club.

Bates left hometown club Newcastle during the summer, joining Newcastle United Jets in the Hyundai A-League in Australia.

But, after failing to settle Down Under after only a handful of appearances, Bates returned to England in November, where he was offered a trial with Quakers.

Belgian side KV Mechelen were also keen to sign Bates after the Tynesider netted a hat-trick for their reserve side recently.

But, after receiving assurances that there would be a deal back in the North-East with Quakers, Bates jumped at the chance to kick-start his career at the 96.6 TFM Darlington Arena.

Bates might have signed for Quakers earlier, but Hodgson was informed he was still under contract to his club in Australia.

"When Guy joined us in November we were led to believe he was still being paid by the team he was playing for in Australia," explained the Quakers boss. "We then discovered that wasn't the case and that he'd been training with us without any pay."

Bates will complete the formalities of his move today and may be on the bench at York Street tomorrow.

"Guy has fitted in really well and now it's up to him to fight for his place," said Hodgson.

"As long as he gets international clearance he will be in the squad on Saturday."

Paul Hopkins may get the nod ahead of Bates in what could be his final appearance for the club tomorrow. Both the Everton youngster and Burnley striker Kyle Lafferty are due to return to their clubs after Saturday's game.

Lafferty is expected to extend his loan spell, although Hodgson has yet to make a decision on Hopkins.

l Mark Wright has launched legal action against Peterborough following his sacking for gross misconduct.

The 42-year-old former Liverpool and England defender is suing the League Two club for breach of contract and the harm caused to his reputation.

Wright was axed as manager by owner Barry Fry on Tuesday after failing to attend a disciplinary hearing following a bust-up