COUNTY manager Chris Turner is expecting to welcome back Warren Feeney, John Hardiker and Keith Briggs from injury for Saturday's League One derby clash at Oldham Athletic.

Turner said: 'I'm expecting all three of those lads back, and that will strengthen the team for the game at Oldham.

'I'm looking for a response following the disappointment of last weekend's defeat against Port Vale. We've now got three games in seven days - including two at home - in which to try and get some wins under our belts.'

Derby games are always tough and highly-charged, but Turner is hoping that his side can capitalise on some questionable form from Oldham in recent weeks.

The Hatters boss added: 'Oldham are suffering from an FA Cup hangover it seems to me.

'It looks like they might have got carried away with their cup win against Manchester City, sometimes league form becomes immaterial. But I know Brian Talbot will be keen to get his lads back on the road.' Oldham were crushed 4-0 at Bournemouth last weekend.

Meanwhile, as the Express went to press yesterday [Tues], last season's top scorer and player-of-the-year Rickie Lambert was still in talks with Rochdale about a possible move to Spotland.

Turner said: 'A fee has been agreed with Rochdale and Rickie sounds keen to go there. He would have been able to leave us on a Bosman free transfer in the summer, while at least it will free up some space for me to bring someone in if he does leave.'

It's been a difficult season for Lambert, who joined County from Macclesfield Town for '300,000 in April, 2002.

'Rickie has faced three seasons of battling relegation here,' added Turner, 'And it's not easy for some players. It's been an uphill battle for him this season.'

Last season Lambert scored 13 goals from midfield, and is always a danger from set-pieces and free-kicks.

• YOUNGSTER Michael Raynes was set to pen a new two-and-a-half year professional contract yesterday (Tues).

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