Key AFC Telford United forward Steve Thompson is back in contention for a starting role as the Bucks attempt to make an Easter charge on the Blue Square North play-off places.

Thompson, who made a big impact playing just behind the strikers before a hamstring injury, has been nursed through his return with substitute outings against Stalybridge and Hyde.

But, after coming through training last night, the former Port Vale forward is now ready to be considered for a start at Ilkeston tomorrow and in Monday’s home clash with Gloucester.

Manager Rob Smith and assistant Larry Chambers must now consider whether to recall Thompson, or stick with the side which beat Hyde 4-0 last week.

“Steve trained well last night and is available to start tomorrow so it’s something for myself and Rob to discuss,” said Chambers.

Suspended Lee Vaughan is the only absentee tomorrow, but he will be back available for Monday.

The stakes couldn’t be higher at Ilkeston with the sixth-placed Bucks three points clear of their hosts but having played two games more.

And Chambers is expecting a tough afternoon as his team look to bridge the three-point gap between them and the top five.

“It’s Ilkeston’s first season at this level and I think they have probably surprised themselves a bit with how well they have done,” he said.

“But now they have got a chance (of the play-offs) they are really going for it.”

Former giant Nottingham Forest striker Jason Lee will be in the Ilkeston squad after signing this week.

By JAMES GARRISON