STOCKPORT won't abandon their attacking philosophy as they attempt to climb the League Two table, writes GUY NELSON.

Chris Turner's side has been praised by opposing managers for their efforts to win games, but County still have only one away victory to their name this season.

"A lot of people have been complaining that football isn't as exciting as it was with more managers trying out the 4-5-1 formation," said Turner.

"But that isn't my way. When I was Hartlepool manager we were the second highest scorers in the league behind Kevin Keegan's Manchester City.

"This game is all about scoring goals, and indeed our problems don't lie there. What we have to do is tighten up at the back, starting against Chester City tomorrow."

Chester's visit to Edgeley Park is followed by games at Lincoln and Wrexham next week, and Turner is hoping there will be no repetition of County's late capitulation at Rushden last Saturday.

Squad

"These are all tough games, so it's a big week for us and gives us the opportunity to get back into the top half of the table," added Turner.

"Chester have had a good start in terms of results, but we want that first home win so the team will be up for it."

Turner has kept the same squad for the Chester game and will probably start with the same 11 that lost 3-2 at Rushden.

That means another start for Michael Malcolm, who scored against Rushden and impressed Turner with his performance as a replacement for the injured Jermaine Easter.

"Michael is a slightly different player from Jermaine, but I already think he has a great future in the game," he added.

French midfielder Mickael Wolski is still out after doctors removed an abscess after his leg became infected following an insect bite at County's Timperley training ground.

LAST SEASON: Different divisions.

KEY OPPONENT: Michael Branch - former Manchester City forward who is now Chester's skipper.

PREDICTION: Stockport County 2 Chester City 1.

What do you think of the prediction? Have your say.

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