SAMMY McIlroy's policy of resting key players at various times through the season looks set to pay off as the Stockport County manager looks to find a replacement for skipper Danny Griffin.

The Northern Ireland international defender faces six months on the sidelines after tearing his Achilles tendon at Blackpool on Saturday.

John Hardiker, who came on when Griffin was stretchered off, looks set to take his place against Rushden & Diamonds this Saturday after being rested in recent weeks.

"John is experienced enough, but he needed a bit of a breather after playing a lot of games," said McIlroy.

"We've taken different players out at different times and I think they've benefited."

That's certainly been true of striker Aaron Wilbraham, who has returned to his best after a spell out of the side.

Wilbraham, who scored Stockport's equaliser at Blackpool, has formed a powerful partnership with Jon Daly, also restored to the team after a loan spell at Bury.

Rested

"It worked for Aaron and Jon and hopefully it will work for John Hardiker," McIlroy added.

Hardiker, who has played central defence, is most likely to slot in at right-back with John Hardiker moving inside to partner Ashley Williams in the centre of defence.

McIlroy says he has no plans to recall Dave Challinor from his loan at Bury.

A five-game unbeaten run has seen renewed confidence that County can avoid the drop even though their three wins and two draws have not lifted them out of the relegation places.

"The truth is that all the teams in the bottom four are fighting for their lives and have started getting results," added McIlroy. "But we've clawed our way back into the reckoning."

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