MORECAMBE boss Sammy McIlroy is ready to recall striker David McNiven from his loan spell at Stafford Rangers after his strikers slumped on Tuesday night.

The Shrimps boss was frustrated by his men in the shock 1-0 Christie Park loss to Altrincham.

And with McNiven in a rich run of form while on loan at Stafford, McIlroy believes recalling the hot-shot from Marston Road would equate to signing a new player.

"We have a few knocks and I will be looking to bring Dave back from Stafford in time for the Exeter City game," says the manager.

"We need to freshen things up a bit and Dave will certainly not be short on confidence as he has been scoring for Stafford."

McNiven has plundered nine goals in eight games for Rangers, including a hat-trick in Tuesday's 3-1 win over Gravesend and Northfleet.