Lincoln City v Wigan Athletic: Early team news

Lee Evans and Kal Naismith - two of the four remaining senior outfield players from last season's squad - are nearing full fitness after several weeks on the sidelines.

But acting manager Leam Richardson feels Saturday's game at Sunderland is probably a more realistic proposition.

"It's been tough recently because the senior players who are missing have been desperate to get back out and help the young group that we've got," acknowledged Richardson.

"Lee Evans and Kal Naismith are working really hard in the gym and out on the grass.

"They're desperate to be involved and get back to help out with our situation.

"But their availability is something we're monitoring daily and tomorrow might be too soon."

Will Keane, Viv Solomon-Otabor and Darnell Johnson also remain on the sidelines, while Joe Garner is out of the equation as he closes in on a move to either Cyprus or India.

"We're going into our 19th game and we've not been able to select the same 11," mused Richardson.

"That's a long time without being able to build the partnerships and relationships within the team.

"For me, it only emphasises how well our lads are doing given the circumstances."

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