With Lincoln Adams suspended, Tony Barras injured and Steve Payne - who has not played for more than two months - still recovering from surgery, Meadowcroft is Halifax's only remaining recognised senior centre back.

But the former Droylsden man believes that he, veteran Nigel Jemson and youngster Luke Hinsley can cover the absences against the Manchester outfit.

"We have Luke Hinsley, who is a good young lad and did well against Sheffield the other week," said Meadowcroft. "I don't see why he can't come in.

"Nigel Jemson has played in that position before and with his experience he could help Luke as well.

"The alternative would be to revert to a back four so we will have to see how the Gaffer decides to go about it."

Meadowcroft arrived at the Shay at the start of October, a week after Payne suffered his injury at Nantwich.

He has only missed one game since then - the President's Cup tie with Sheffield - and he admitted he had benefited from playing 13 games in eight weeks.

"When I arrived I knew I would be down the pecking order, now I have moved to being the senior one available," he said.

"I feel stronger and fitter than I did when I arrived and am happier with my performances now.

"I was very disappointed with the way I played at Harrogate Railway because I know what I can do and I didn't do myself any justice that day.

"Hopefully the fans will see how I have come on since then."

Trafford, promoted from the North West Counties last season, are mid-table in Unibond One North.

And Meadowcroft knows that they will pose a threat with 25-goal striker Scott Barlow in their ranks.

"Trafford are a decent side and have the leading scorer in the league," he said. "They score goals, but they also concede them.

"If we can get at them we can get an early goal. We have to score when we are on top.

"But if it doesn't come we have to remain patient. Newcastle showed that when they kept the ball."

• HALIFAX Town Supporters' Club are holding a fund-raising race night at

the Belgrave Social Club, Claremount, on Sunday, December 14. The event starts at 7.30.