Macken's City return

Jon Macken will make his latest attempt at a comeback for Manchester City tonight as he tries to salvage something from a season of misery.

The £5m striker is fit enough to play for the reserves after starting training following his thigh injury which stopped his previous return from a long-term knee problem. City will have a strong side out, including Steve Howey and Richard Dunne, with several in the shop window before a summer clear-out by Kevin Keegan.

Southampton's young Australian striker Scott McDonald is joining Brian Talbot's Rushden & Diamonds in a surprise move. The teenager made a handful of appearances for the Saints, but has been left out by Gordon Strachan this season.

The Coventry player-manager, Gary McAllister, is giving Alloa's highly rated right-midfielder Paul Walker an opportunity to train with the club and a chance to make a career in England. McAllister's scouts have been positive about Walker, who also trained with Kilmarnock recently, and the former Scotland captain wants a close-hand look before committing to a deal.

The Coventry manager is slashing his budget this summer and Walker could benefit from the change of planning at Highfield Road.