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For despite his team’s blistering start to the Banks’s League campaign – eight wins and a draw in nine opening matches – Northwood is sticking resolutely to his policy of “horses for courses”.

“We need all the players we’ve got,” said Northwood after the midweek Derbyshire Senior Cup drubbing of Derby Prims. “We haven’t really got a massive squad. Neil Mason has got another three weeks suspension and Rob Philpott and Clive Arthur have both had work commitments.

“I think the squad still needs another winger so I’ve been chasing a player this week.”

In addition, Northwood has added the auspicious signing of Wolves and Manchester City midfielder Steve Daley to his collection on Wednesday evening, although he is biding his time with the former £1.25m star until weekend working problems are resolved.

“There’s no way I’ll play Steve regularly unless that includes Saturday: no way is he a midweek games only player,” Northwood said.

“He’s due to have a meeting at work and he’s confident he can resolve the situation but until then he won’t be in the squad.”

Northwood is likely to restore Jon Laws – another casualty of midweek work commitments for the Prims game – to midfield for tomorrow’s vital trip to Chasetown at the expense of Martin McKenzie.

McKenzie disappointed in the Prims game and “got a few nasty knocks.” But Law’s strong running style could give Rovers the extra impetus needed to overcome Chasetown – one of the most consistent home sides in the league – tomorrow while main title rivals Tamworth and Oldbury are both engaged in FA Cup duties.

Says Northwood: “A win tomorrow would put us out in front – then it’s up to them to catch us.”