PAUL Carden says Jack Dunn has earned a place in his Warrington Town starting line-up.

The former England under 19s international is set to line-up on the left of a three-man attack against Buxton tomorrow, kick off 3pm – the first of four games over the Christmas period for Yellows.

Dunn is likely to fill the void left by Jake Kirby, who was recalled from his loan spell at Cantilever Park by parent club Stockport County following some impressive performances off the bench in recent weeks, including a goal in the 4-0 win over North Ferriby United on December 8.

“With Jake going back, Jack has earned that position. He has been outstanding in every single training session,” Carden said.

“He knows what’s required of him now at this level of football. I think it took him a bit of time to adjust, sometimes it can do.

“He appreciates now that it’s not all what he’s used to in terms of academy football.

“He’s grown up in an environment in which pitches are like bowling greens and teams all play in a very similar way.

“I think he appreciates now what he needs to do to get the best out of himself and he understands where I’m coming from in what I’m trying to do.

“His performances in training and coming off the bench have earned him that start.”

Jake Kirby has been recalled by Stockport County, thus creating a space to be filled in Warrington Town's attack. Picture by John Hopkins

The victory against North Ferriby was the last time Town were in action as they found themselves with no fixture over the weekend.

Now, though, Yellows must brush off any cobwebs quickly as they face a daunting festive schedule.

Saturday’s game is followed swiftly by a Boxing Day trip to neighbours Witton Albion, a visit to Basford United on December 29 and a home clash with Bamber Bridge on New Year’s Day.

Carden says he cannot realistically expect to field the same 11 players in all four games, and thus called on every member of his squad to be ready to go.

“Christmas for me has been about football since I was 16. It just becomes natural,” he said.

“Every single one of the players will have played over Christmas so it’s nothing new.

“I expect the lads to be professional and do things right to give us the best possible opportunity.

“As a manager, I’ve got to make sure I use the squad. As a player, you have to live right to give yourself the best chance.

“There’s players we know can handle that many games in a short period of time, but there are also players we know we’re going to have to manage.

“It’s important we make sure the lads are on it and that they follow the instructions we give them.”