Thomas has missed the first two games of the season, due to being away on holiday and then picking up an ear infection, but he is now set to reform a deadly striking partnership with Darren Clough at Redcar.

Head coach Mitch Cook said: "If you look at Neil and Darren in the under-19s league last season, they scored 10 and 13 goals respectively in 14 games. We are looking for a similar spark this season.

"Neil has been missed in the first couple of games - he is a big, strong old-fashioned striker, who can score goals.

"We have been lacking a bit of composure in front of goal, so hopefully we'll be able to put things right."

Cook, who will be without veteran Marcus Jones (working) and defender Martin Barnes (injury), is expecting another tough test on the Teesside coast.

He added: "Saturday's match at Great Ayton was the first time we have been behind this season and the lads showed that they can battle back from that situation.

"It will be another tough test against Redcar, who have won one, drawn one and lost one this season. We will be looking to pick up a good result though and continue our fine start."

Tonight's other Teesside League division two games: Billingham Kader v Coulby Newham, Coble Ennis Square v Teesside Athletic Res.