Davidson, who joined from Alfreton on Tuesday, was a 40th minute substitute in the 2-0 home defeat by Buxton on Wednesday, but was still named the Gladiators' man-of-the-match.

The 29-year-old former Hereford United man, at Causeway Lane initially for one month, was praised by manager Mark Atkins for his contribution to an otherwise poor team performance.

"I thought Danny was excellent when he came on and he looked a big danger to them," said Atkins.

"You can see he has played at a higher level and knows what to do and where to be.

"I think he'll be a big help to us."

Atkins also singled out another new recruit, Adam Yates, who made his second appearance since joining permanently from Shirebrook Town, replacing Ashley Foyle in the 55th minute.

"I thought Adam did very well," said Atkins.

"He gave us a bit of impetus and, to be fair, he was very vocal on the pitch, which is what we are lacking."

With Atkins promising that "there will be changes", 19-year-old Yates also has a good chance of starting the game in Cheshire, but Liam King, who has an achilles injury, is a major doubt, while striker Dene Cropper's knee problems, which have dogged him throughout his Matlock career, are also a worry.

With just nine games to go and with Matlock four points adrift of safety, Atkins says he still believes the Gladiators can beat the drop from the UniBond Premier Division - but cast doubt over his players' attitude, describing it in midweek as "not up to scratch".

"I still believe in the quality we have got in the team, but we have a down side of not turning up and getting ready to play in certain games," he said.

"We have got to be focused and play every game."