Shotton to make farewell appearance – for now

Nov 29 2008 by Nick Hilton, Liverpool Daily Post

RYAN SHOTTON says a temporary goodbye to Tranmere after this afternoon’s FA Cup second round encounter with Peterborough.

The tie at London Road marks the end of a three month loan spell from Stoke City for the 20-year-old, who hopes to sign off on a winning note. manager Ronnie Moore said: “Ryan has been absolutely magnificent for us.”

John Johnson, a 20-year-old defender signed on a month’s loan from Middlesbrough this week to cover Shotton’s absence, does not have clearance from his paymasters to play in the FA Cup.

Nor does Tranmere’s other recent loan signing, Doncaster midfielder, Mark Wilson.

Winger Chris Shuker is also ruled out of action today by a flu bug.

But Tranmere will have Steve Jennings back from suspension to strengthen the midfield.

Moore won’t reveal his tactical hand for the second round tie to opposite number Darren Ferguson. He says striker Chris Greenacre’s recovery from back injury would give him the option of playing with two front men.