Tranmere v Rochdale preview

Team news ahead of Boxing Day's League One fixture between Tranmere and Rochdale at Prenton Park.

Tranmere are sweating over the fitness of Ian Goodison and David Raven for the home clash. Defender Goodison has missed Rovers' last two games due to a hamstring problem, while full-back Raven continues to suffer with a thigh problem. However, both will be given until the last possible opportunity to prove their fitness as Les Parry's side look to arrest a four-match league losing run. Michael Kay is also expected to miss out after breaking his rib, but full-back Zoumana Bakayogo is likely to shake off a knee injury and play for the first time since mid-November. Robbie Weir has been suffering with tonsillitis recently, though Tranmere are hopeful he will be well enough in time for Dale's visit. Caretaker manager Chris Beech takes charge of Rochdale for the first time when they make the trip to Tranmere. The 37-year-old was handed the reins in midweek following the departure of Steve Eyre, who was sacked with Dale languishing in the npower League One relegation places. Beech, though, will likely be without goalkeeper David Lucas, who has still not trained following a horrific head collision with Sheffield United defender Neill Collins a couple of weeks ago. The incident caused Lucas to swallow his tongue and he credited United striker Richard Cresswell with saving his life by placing him in the recovery position before 10 minutes of treatment was administered on the pitch. Defender Marcus Holness shook off a groin problem to play in the goalless draw with Yeovil last time out and will once again be involved. Midfielders Joe Thompson (thigh) and Simon Hackney (abdominal) are long-term absentees, alongside Scottish defender Marc Twaddle (back).