TOTO Nsiala isn't assured of an immediate recall to Grimsby Town's starting XI for this afternoon's clash at Wrexham.
The centre-half was forced to sit out Tuesday evening's 0-0 draw against Altrincham after collecting his fifth booking of the season, and earning a one-match suspension in the process.
On-loan Danny Parslow moved inside to partner Shaun Pearson in the heart of the back four, with Aswad Thomas and Carl Magnay occupying the full-back roles.
A clean sheet later, and Mariners boss Paul Hurst admits he has a decision to make before installing Nsiala, pictured, back into the side.
"The defence is an area where we've looked very strong," Hurst remarked.
"Recently, if you look at the goals we've conceded, there was a free-kick at Halifax, a short corner – probably offside – goal against Southport, and one goal at Dartford where we've hardly given them a chance all game.
"So we've looked strong, and on Tuesday night we shuffled it around.
"Aswad came in and did extremely well, and 'Pars' – who I know can play at centre-back – looked pretty comfortable and kept a clean sheet.
"I certainly don't need to change it this weekend. In fairness to Toto, he has done well, but it isn't something, hand on heart, that I've made my mind up on just yet.
"I've looked at Wrexham a little bit, but they changed formation the other night – they had been playing 4-4-2 more often this season, so I don't think I'll be picking my team simply based on what I think they might do."
Thomas' comeback from a fractured fibula was a major plus for Hurst's men, and the left-back appears to have come through that return unscathed.
"Aswad came through the other night well," Hurst added.
"He felt okay on Thursday – he had a bit of a lighter session than the rest of the players just to make sure he's okay for today if I choose to start him again.
"It was great credit to him, and great to see him back out there.
"He gives us that natural balance and adds some of his forward runs which takes the team back up the pitch.
"His fitness levels were very good. You could obviously see that he was tired at the end, but at the same time I expect my players to look tired at the end of a 90-minute game."
