by Andrew Gidley

Dartford could welcome back Lee Noble and Tom Champion for the visit of Thurrock on Saturday as Tony Burman’s side look to consolidate second place in Blue Square Bet South.

Noble has been out with a back injury, while defender Champion is again available after completing a two-match ban.

The future of Connor Essam is yet to be decided after Gillingham boss Andy Hessenthaler watched the 19-year-old score in Tuesday night’s 4-1 win at Staines Town and the Gills manager is believed to be keen on ending his five-week loan at Princes Park.

Burman (pictured) said: "I am expecting a call from Hessy but hope I don’t get one. We spoke on Sunday and he agreed that Connor could play in the game. He has been excellent for us and given us that little bit of quality."

The Darts boss is looking to finish the week with a third successive win against Thurrock on Saturday but refuses to take anything for granted against their Thameside rivals.

He said: "They have some good players and a new manager and their results have picked up in recent weeks.

"I am sure they will come and give it a real go. We have to approach it in the right manner as we did against Hampton and Staines."