IAN RUSH is expected to give a vote of confidence to his Chester squad,who travel to play-off chasing Darling-ton tomorrow, after gaining seven points from the last nine.

City have recorded victories recently against Notts County and Bury, as well as a goalless draw at Mansfield Town on Good Friday.

The run has seen Chester ease their relegation worries but, by contrast, promotion-chasing Darlington have stuttered of late, and lost their last home match to relegationthreatened Kidderminster Harriers.

However, Rush is full of admiration for the North Easteners, who are managed by his former Liverpool colleague David Hodgson.

"I am convinced that Darlington will get into the play-offs, so I know we will be in for a tough game.

"Hopefully, there won't be a backlash from their recent home defeat. My squad, who played against Mansfield and Bury, picked up a few knocks, but we don't have any real injury problems."

Reserve goalkeeper Wayne Brown, who is suffering from a shoulder injury, is again doubtful, so it is possible that City will again name five out-field players on their substitutes' bench.

Meanwhile, Chester have allowed veteran striker Kevin Rapley and young defender Danny Ventre to join Conference North championship chasers Droylsden on a month's loan.

Chester City (probable): Mackenzie, Edmondson, Bolland, Hope, Nicholas, Drummond, Carden, Davies, Lowe, Foy, Branch.