Cobblers forwards in fitness battle

Caretaker manager Ian Sampson picked up his first win in charge against Rotherham on Tuesday night and is hoping Courtney Herbert will be fit. The 20-year-old scored on his first league start in midweek but was taken off with a rib injury. X-rays have confirmed he has not broken a rib but he is doubtful to start. Adebayo Akinfenwa has been sent for a scan on his troublesome knee and is also a doubt while Gary Mulligan may again miss out with a back problem. However, Billy McKay scored a hat-trick for the reserves at Ipswich on Wednesday and is ready to start if required. Central defender Dean Beckwith picked up a minor groin strain against Rotherham and came off as a precaution but is expected to continue while Liam Davis is the only other absentee as he recovers from a broken metatarsal.