Selection headache for Naylor ahead of crunch Lions clash

HEADING FOR A RECALL? . . . Will Hope is in the frame to replace the injured Craig Briscoe

SCOTT Naylor is pondering his selection options ahead of Oldham's big game at Swinton Lions on Sunday (3pm).

The Roughyeds boss says there might be changes, but in some instances he still hasn't made final decisions and, as usual, he won't show his hand until the players report for the pre-match 'Captain's Knock' tomorrow.

Explaining that it will be a horses-for-courses team, Naylor said: "I'll be picking what I consider to be the right 17 to play Swinton.

"Last time we went there we wern't in the game after 20 minutes. And when they came to Bower Fold they pushed us all the way.

"It's an important game for both clubs. And I would like to see us both stay up.

"We came up from League One together and we have both done well in our first season of Championship rugby.

"Both clubs need the local rivalry and I wouldn't like to see a Lancashire side getting relegated."

Naylor will have to make at least one change. Expect Phil Joy, Will Hope or Jack Spencer to replace the injured Craig Briscoe.

Joy is the first member of the squad to re-sign for 2017 and Naylor said of the front-row forward:

"He's Oldham through and through. The club means a lot to him. He never gives less than 100 per cent.

"I'm very pleased he has signed again. Hopefully, others will follow in the next two or three weeks."

Roughyeds have won four of their last six games and another win at Heywood Road would put them within touching distance of Championship survival.

The Lions, one place and one point behind, are expected to recall Stuart Littler at centre and Liam Marshall on the wing.