EMERGENCY striker Dan Stack will be leading AFC Ludlow's attack in Saturday's important home clash against rivals Penkridge Town.

Manager Dave Cooper is pleased to have Stack in his line-up because Nathan Hodge and Luke Hicks are both unavailable.

Cooper unsuccessfully tried to sign Stack from Herefordshire League Premier Division newcomers Shobdon at the start of the campaign.

But Cooper explained: ""Dan Stack got in contact with me and said he could play this weekend because Shobdon do not have a match.

"Dan Stack is a handful for any opposition and will cause problems for Penkridge.

"I tried to sign him at the start of the season and I played with him when we were both at Leominster Town.

"It will be a tough game but the likes of Stack will be good for us."

Jake Pryce is serving a two-match suspension, while Hicks is also banned and Nathan Hodge is not available.

Skipper Jamie Marsh is also struggling with injury, says Cooper.

"Jack Beaumont has been with us for three years and he can play in any position, which is fantastic," said Cooper.

"His attitude is fantastic and he has not missed a training session for two years. He is a very important player for us. Rob Boyd and Rob Vass should be available."

Ludlow are fifth in West Midlands League Division Two, six points adrift of second-placed Wolverhampton Sporting Community Reserves (WSCR).

Penkridge are seventh, level on points with Ludlow, whose match last weekend against WSCR was postponed.

Ludlow recorded a hard-fought 2-0 win at Penkridge earlier in the campaign.

"We beat Penkridge and we played well that day," recalled Cooper.

"Penkridge were a hard-working side and played well on a difficult pitch.

"Team Dudley are top - we have some big matches this month."

Cooper can't wait for Pryce, Hicks and Nathan Hodge to be available.

"Jake is a box to box player and if he could add goals to his game be would be one of the best players in the region," said Cooper.

"Luke's passing game is one of the best at the club. But the good news is that Dale Hodge is still in the area.

"The signing of Nathan Hodge is a huge bonus for us.

"I had not planned for him but the team is not just about Nathan - the other lads have to step up to the plate."