Sean McAllister now fighting to win back Shrewsbury Town place

Midfielder schemer Sean McAllister was today attempting to force his way back into Shrewsbury Town's FA Cup reckoning for this weekend.

Bolton-born McAllister had become a regular in the Town midfield over the last month, but saw his encouraging run of form punctured by a stomach and hip problem which forced him to miss last week's home victory over Morecambe.

His replacement Nicky Wroe scored from the penalty spot in that 2-0 victory, but McAllister is due to return to training today and is hoping his recent form could put him in contention for Saturday's second round tie with Rotherham.

"It has been really frustrating for me because we came off a great result at Northampton and then the injury came," he said.

"I had a left foot shot in training on the Tuesday and I felt a twinge in my stomach.

"I was dying to play last week but the manager made the decision which is understandable when you look at the strength in depth we have got.

"I hope to train today and tomorrow and give myself a chance of being involved on Saturday."

McAllister insisted Town were desperate to carry their impressive form – which has seen them win four straight games during a seven-match unbeaten streak – into the Cup.

"We have already had one big team in the Carling Cup (Arsenal) so it would be great to get through this and get another," he added.

"But we have drawn with Rotherham already this season (1-1 away) so we know it's going to be tough."

Town are still waiting for confirmation on whether loanees James Hurst and James Wallace will be cleared to play by parent clubs West Bromwich Albion and Everton on Saturday.

It is understood West Brom could be reluctant to allow right-back Hurst to become Cup-tied.