Dependable defender David Raven is facing a race against time to be fit for part one of Shrewsbury Town’s play-off showdown with Torquay on Saturday.

The former Carlisle right back missed the final game of the regular season, last weekend’s 3-0 triumph over Oxford, with a thigh strain.

And boss Graham Turner has revealed it is touch and go whether 25-year-old Raven will be ready in time for the trip to Plainmoor.

“David is making some progress and has been put down at about 50-50 to be fit for the weekend,” said Turner.

“He had a dead leg in the previous game at Cheltenham and just aggravated it a little bit in training so it was bad enough to keep him out last Saturday.”

Shoud Raven recover in time he would challenge Jermaine Grandison, who was sent off in the 5-0 defeat at Torquay in March, for the right back berth.

Turner has confirmed that on-loan Shrewsbury striker Jake Robinson will be eligible to play against his parent club in both legs, while Town’s three loanees will remain with Town until the end of their campaign.

“Mat Sadler is on a long-term loan until the end of our season, whenever that may be, and David Davis and Niall Canavan are on flexible youth loans so they are all okay,” added Turner.

Turner, meanwhile, has revealed midfielder Steve Leslie will come back into his thinking after completing a successful two month loan with Hereford.

“Steve had a good spell at Hereford and scored a couple of goals,” added the Town boss.

“I’ve spoken to Steve and he has enjoyed his time there.

“It’s amazing what a change of scenery and a run in the side can do.

“He has got great ability and if he can get his confidence up, I’m sure there is a very good player there.”

Torquay boss Paul Buckle has no selection problems to worry about, although key midfielder Craig Stanley has returned to Morecambe because his maximum 93-day loan has ended.

By JAMES GARRISON