DARLINGTON expect to have a new goalkeeper in the ranks for tomorrow’s FA Cup tie at Leamington.

With Chris Elliott carrying an injury, manager Alun Armstrong has moved to make an addition on loan from a North-East non-league club and he goes straight into Quakers’ squad.

The experienced goalkeeper could start the third qualifying round tie if it is deemed Elliott needs a rest.

“He’s got an infection in his leg and it’s been such a strange one,” said Armstrong. “His foot’s been swelling up and he’s been on antibiotics and playing through it for us.

“Sometimes you’ve just got to rest it and see what happens, but he doesn’t want to rest, he still wants to play which is the attitude you want to hear.”

The formalities of the new addition’s loan deal should be completed today, and Armstrong added: “He’s on loan for a month to start off so that we can have a look at each other, and then we’ll see where we go after that, but someone of his experience doesn’t come along too often.”

Darlington have not named a goalkeeper among their substitutes recently, with youngster Cameron Hall having been sidelined with a toe problem and since recovering has been playing for Darlington Town in the Wearside League on a dual-registration basis.

As well as Elliott carrying a knock, Stephen Thompson is doubtful after sustaining a groin injury in last weekend’s win at Alfreton.

“We’ll have to asses Thommo,” said Armstrong. “He came off at Alfreton with his groin so he is struggling a bit and we will probably test him on Saturday. We’ll wait and see, but he is 50/50 at the minute.

“Jordan Watson is back and probably Louis Laing as well, so it might be a case of two in and one out.

“Laingy did a lot of work on Tuesday, so hopefully we can get him back in the squad, that would be a big boost having someone like him back.”

Meanwhile, John Woolnough has stepped down as Darlington's finance director today. 

He was appointed in February and was integral to the signings of Justin Donawa, Osagi Bascome and Omar Holness.

Having previously mentioned being a Darlington director, Woolnough's twitter biog read this morning: "Sunderland AFC fan... I used to play a bit of cricket."

Darlington's chief executive David Johnston said: "We're sorry to lose John's skills and experience, but we understand the time commitments placed on volunteers.

"Thanks to John for his contribution during his short time on the board, and we wish him well."