Paul Henderson can nail down his place in City's team for the big kick-off.

The Australian keeper, who the club hope to sign on a permanent deal, will play in goal at Shrewsbury tomorrow. And another good performance could cement his chances of starting the opening League One clash at Hartlepool in eight days time.

The 26-year-old yesterday held further talks with Colin Todd, who wants him on board to challenge Jamaica international Donovan Ricketts for a starting role.

Ricketts is at Valley Parade on a year's loan but cannot play until his work permit is processed. There has been a frustrating delay with the paperwork which means he will have to sit it out once again when City wrap up their pre-season against the Conference play-off winners at Gay Meadow. But the hold-up means that Henderson can gain pole position in the race to be top stopper. Although Ricketts has been designated the No 1 shirt next term, Todd has made it clear the spot is up for grabs.

The City boss said: "I will take who I think is the best in the position. There is no obvious first choice and it's down to the keepers themselves.

"You need competition and bringing in Henderson will provide that. He is keen to play and I've been impressed with him so far."

Todd sees tomorrow as the perfect dress rehearsal for the real action coming up.

"This is just what we need just before the start of the season. It will bring us back to the reality of what to expect in League One."

David Wetherall, Dean Windass, Nicky Summerbee and Steve Schumacher - who today signed a two-year deal along with Michael Symes - are all back after being rested from the private game at Middlesbrough. But Wayne Jacobs could miss out as he nurses a slight hamstring injury. Admission at Gay Meadow costs £8 for adults and £5 concessions.