It has been revealed that midfielder Derek Niven is a serious doubt for the weekend after missing part of pre-season training with a back strain. 

Niven - a face in the crowd during early pre-season

Chesterfield manager Roy McFarland has not ruled Niven out entirely but this weekend's game at Blackpool may have come too soon for the battling midfielder to be included.

Alan O'Hare could also be missing

Apart from Derek Niven, and perhaps Alan O'Hare who is suffering from a knock on the ankle, Chesterfield are expected to take a full squad for the first game of the season at the seaside.