Cobblers trio edge closer to full fitness as new signings return for Port Vale clash

James Olayinka hurt his ankle against Scunthorpe last week

Turnbull strained his hip during the first FA Cup tie against Derby County two weeks ago and has missed the subsequent three fixtures.

But the 25-year-old was back in training earlier this week and could return to the fold on Saturday, however January signing Olayinka must wait at least another week having gone down to Arsenal for treatment.

The young midfielder was pictured wearing a protective boot last week but that was just a precautionary measure and he should be back with the Cobblers soon.

"I think some people would have seen that James had been wearing a precautionary protective boot but it was on for what it is - a precautionary boot," said manager Keith Curle.

"He's gone back and been assessed by Arsenal. He was assessed by ourselves as well and hopefully James will be back with us in a week or 10 days and he'll be fit and raring to go.

"Jordan Turnbull's on the grass and training today (Thursday) so he'll be in contention."

Midfielder Alan McCormack, meanwhile, continues his gradual return to first-team action.

Curle added: "Alan McCormack is continuing his field-based training but we've got a duty of care for Macca and it probably goes against what he wants to do.

"Whether it's 14 or 16 games that he's available for, it's probably 10 days or two weeks longer than he would like but sometimes you have to put the reins on him and he's ready when needed."

Curle will also have Lloyd Jones, Callum Morton and Mark Marshall back available after they were ineligible to play against Derby in midweek.