Matt Tootle told to fight for his Town place

Previously ever-present Tootle was omitted from the 18 for the FA Cup win at Gainsborough as Dom Smith moved to right-back with youngster Sam Patterson on the bench when Town were trying to sign right-back Kevin Foley.

"We're 30 miles from the M6 to the east and we've got Wales to the west so when a player becomes available that's logistically right like Foley, and we think they're of League One quality or above, we'll try to get him," said the boss.

Asked what he thought of Tootle's performances, Mellon admitted: "I was disappointed with lots of things in the Port Vale game and I wanted to shake things up.

"There were a few people who needed to play and it was time to introduce Anthony Gerrard."

Scott Vernon surprisingly returned to contention in Lincolnshire and came off the bench for his first appearance this season after rejecting several moves since being made available in July.

And Tootle has been told to follow the 31-year-old's example.

"Like Scott Vernon, there are no doors shut on anybody," said boss Mellon.

"If I don't believe there will be first-team football for them, I'll tell them because I respect their careers.

"Then it's their choice if they stay.

"In the case of Verny that opportunity's opened up again so he's probably right to stick around.

"But the same applies to everyone."

Mellon admitted Tootle may be lacking confidence.

"They all suffer – that's football," he said. "They've all got ability but mentality and confidence can go in a heartbeat.

"If that's missing, they need to sort that out because they're first-team players getting paid to do a job. That happens to all players so it would be unfair to say it's happening to one more than any other."