Rochdale vs Notts County preview - O'Connell back in Dale fold

Posted Friday, December 19, 2014 by PA

Rochdale defender Jack O'Connell is expected to return to contention for the home game against Notts County.

Centre-half O'Connell, on loan from Blackburn, did not have permission to play in the midweek FA Cup replay win against Aldershot, but could be back in the starting line-up.

Manager Keith Hill made only one change on Tuesday night - Rhys Bennett replaced O'Connell after overcoming the effects of emergency dental treatment - but could be tempted to tinker with his match-day squad.

Striker Joe Bunney is hoping to return to contention following illness as Dale chase a third straight win.

Club captain Hayden Mullins is set to make his long-awaited return to the Notts County squad on Saturday.

Mullins has been out since the start of November with a calf injury but it remains to be seen whether Magpies manager Shaun Derry will start with the 35-year-old or find a place for him on the bench.

As well as Mullins, Derry has the likes of Ronan Murray, Drissa Traore, Shaun Harrad and Ryan Hall to call on should he wish to make any changes to his team.

Midfielder Liam Noble is still suspended following his red card in the home defeat to Swindon last weekend.