Stopper Jalal to make more Cobblers starts

The former Bury goalkeeper came agonisingly close to claiming a clean sheet at the Kassam Stadium, conceding an injury-time goal in a 1-1 draw.

The 31-year-old will be desperate to prove his worth, having only joined Cobblers on a deal until the end of the season.

And Wilder will give him chances to impress in Saturday’s game against Cheltenham Town at Sixfields and the following week’s trip to Burton Albion.

“He (Jalal) will be playing in the next couple of games,” said the Town manager.

“We know what Matt (Duke) can do and I thought Shwan was excellent on Tuesday night.

“He didn’t have too much chance with the goal. He made a good decision to come on a poor defensive decision and he was positive in everything he did.

“He’ll play on Saturday and at Burton a week on Saturday.”

Jason Taylor and Ryan Cresswell remain suspended for Saturday’s game against Cheltenham, but Marc Richards will again be on the bench.

The 17-goal striker made a successful return from an Achilles injury in the closing stages of Tuesday’s game, and Wilder said: “We were desperate to get Marc onto the pitch.

“He’s worked extremely hard and it’s always a great bonus to see your captain and one of the league’s leading goalscorers being back for selection.

“He’ll be on the bench for Saturday and that is great news for the supporters and me as well.”