A REJUVENATED Dave Merris could have forced his way back into Chris Brass' starting line-up for tomorrow's away match against in-form Gravesend & Northfleet.

Brass believes Merris is currently showing the same form that he displayed at the beginning of last season and looks ready to hand the 23-year-old left back his first start of the current campaign against a Gravesend team unbeaten in their last 15 matches.

The place of former Crewe captain Shaun Smith seems most in danger if Merris (pictured) is recalled, although left winger Bryan Stewart could also make way.

Brass said: "Dave Merris came off the bench against Hereford and gave a good performance. He's had a fabulous week training and he's starting to look like the player we signed from Harrogate Town 12 months ago.

"He's full of enthusiasm and endeavour and I'm happy with the progress he's made and the desire he's showing. He's started banging on the door and has given me options which you want from all your squad players."

Experienced pair Kevin Donovan and Lee Nogan will also be welcomed back into tomorrow's squad after injury problems.

Midfielder Donovan looks set to make his City debut - perhaps as a substitute - and Brass said: "He won't get through 90 minutes but will feature at some stage and we will be easing him in."

City's youth team will host Boston United tomorrow at the Wigginton Road training complex, kick off noon.

Updated: 10:46 Friday, August 27, 2004