The Linnets will try and finish a difficult week on a positive note when they entertain lowly Cirencester in the Evo-Stik Southern Premier Division.

Gary Setchell's team saw their FA Cup run come to an end in third round qualifying when they were beaten 2-0 by higher-level Alfreton at The Walks last weekend.

That was followed by a Southern League Challenge Cup first round loss at St Ives, 6-5 on penalties, after the match had finished 0-0 in extra-time. The match was almost abandoned however, after a nasty clash of heads saw Lynn defender Matty Castellan taken to hospital after lengthy treatment on the pitch.

The 21-year-old has made good progress in hospital and continues to be monitored closely.

It has all made for a tough week for the Linnets, who host a Cirencester side looking to kick-start their season after the recent sacking of manager Brian Hughes.

Ex-Swindon and Wycombe striker Charlie Griffin has been persuaded to hang up his boots and pick up the reins, beginning his time in charge with a 0-0 home draw against Hitchin last Saturday, before losing 4-1 on penalties at Banbury in the League Cup on Tuesday.

The Centurions – who have scored just 11 goals in 12 league games –have signed Iceland U19 international Sindri Scheving from Reading ahead of the match. The 18-year-old has joined on a one-month loan deal and goes straight into the squad, with regular left-back Scott Bevan suffering from severe tonsillitis and awaiting an operation.