Why John Pemberton has not included Joe Rowley in Chesterfield's squad for last three matches

The midfielder held talks with Pemberton at the end of last season after not featuring and the 21-year-old came back refreshed and impressed in pre-season with his attitude and performances.

He was named among the substitutes for the first game of the season against Hartlepool United and came on for the final few minutes, but has been left out completely ever since.

When asked why that was, Pemberton told the DT that he sees Rowley and Liam Mandeville as similar players and at the moment the latter has the edge.

“Joe has just been unfortunate because I have to look at what he can do and what the games have been and what we are going to need,” Pemberton said.

“I have to weigh him up with Liam Mandeville and say which one could be the more dangerous for us or can cope with the whole situation of what our game is about at the moment.

“They (the games) are all a fight and we have to get a foothold in the game so at this moment in time I just don’t see where I could fit him.

“He is training everyday and he just has to be patient.

“He is disappointed that he is not involved, but it is just the way it is at the moment.”

In other news, the Spireites will be able to call upon Scott Boden again after the striker missed the last three matches through suspension after being sent off against Hartlepool.