ALAN Thompson is back in the disciplinary dock after warming up for Wanderers' Old Trafford derby date.

The midfield ace, who has just completed his second suspension in the space of five weeks, picked up his sixth booking of the season in a reserve team outing last night.

He is now just two yellow cards away from an automatic ban, adding to the disciplinary problems that continue to hamper Colin Todd's selection plans.

With Scott Sellars and Per Frandsen currently one booking apiece away from automatic two-match suspensions, the Wanderers boss could have his midfield decimated when he can least afford it.

Todd has previously admonished Thompson for his disciplinary record, which has seen him banned for three matches for his red card at Blackburn and a further two for picking up five yellows.

The talented Geordie had a night of mixed fortunes as he geared up for Saturday's duel with Championship favourites Manchester United.

He atoned for his booking for a late tackle with a spectacular equaliser as Wanderers came from behind to draw their first Pontins League fixture of the year 1-1 at Grimsby.

Record signing Dean Holdsworth had a 75-minute runout to confirm his fitness for the United game and looks certain to resume his partnership with top scorer Nathan Blake.

Skipper Gudni Bergsson, also available after serving a two-match suspension, missed the Blundell Park game because of an ankle injury. But he trained yesterday and is expected to get the thumbs up to lead Wanderers into the derby which, in the light of recent results, is crucial to both clubs' Premiership fortunes.

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