Greg Clowes gives Rangers a pep talk

Stafford Rangers manager Greg Clowes has called for a response from his players against Chorley after admitting he has been "harsh" on the team.

The Rangers boss was today hoping to add Chris Flynn to his ranks in time to join the squad for tonight's match but left-back Jon Sheldon, despite being available after suspension, will not be included.

Sheldon has had a bust-up with the manager after failing to travel with the squad to away games at Worksop and Stocksbridge Park Steels and hasn't been seen since training last Monday night.

Flynn could be involved but Rangers were not permitted to speak to him until today under the terms of the seven-day approach to his club, Evo-Stik Northern League rivals Nantwich.

And, after figuring in the last two games for the Dabbers, the former Rangers defender could well stay where he is.

Clowes tore into his players after Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Steels, which left Rangers still searching for their first win under the new manager, quipping that some of the team "possibly aren't good enough for this level."

But, on reflection, the Rangers boss today offered a more balanced view.

He said: "I have got faith in the squad, I think the world of them, but they have got to show me that they can do it.

"As footballers, I respect every one of those lads, I know what they can do and what they can't do.

"I have given them a bit of an earbashing and maybe I have been a bit harsh on them, but football is about results.

"I am based on results and, if we are not getting them, fingers are going to be pointed at me."

A tough test awaits Rangers tonight in the form of the promoted league leaders, managed by former Blackburn and Manchester City midfielder Garry Flitcroft.

Clowes said: "Chorley are a good side, with a good support and a big budget, and some extremely good players for this level of football.

"Every player at got to be at the top of his game to give us a chance of winning, because they have hit the ground running."

The Rangers boss also clarified his position on Sheldon's omission from the team.

He said: "There seems to be a little breakdown in commuincation between myself and Jon Sheldon - and it's not on my side. That isn't Jon, so something is amiss somewhere down the line.

"I expected Jon to be there on Saturday and he wasn't, or has replied to my texts. He needs to be getting fit with the team and he hasn't done that.

"He's got to sort that out and he hasn't made it easy for us, because a fit Jon Sheldon will improve the team, there's no doubt about that."