Albion's match against lowly Lincoln at Withdean on Saturday is rated "very doubtful".

The Football League have asked Lewes referee Steve Tomlin to make a pitch inspection at 9.30 tomorrow morning, before Lincoln travel.

Albion secretary Derek Allan said today: "It looks very doubtful indeed. From what I've heard the pitch is under water at the moment and the forecast is not good. The last thing we need is more rain."

The pitch was in a terrible mess for Monday's game against Southend and Tomlin is likely to err on the side of caution.

Writing in the Sports Argus last month, he said: "The integrity of the competition must remain intact and be considered when postponing any fixture.

"You need a consistent bounce and the ball must roll."

If the match does get the go ahead, Steve Melton is in contention for his first League start for Albion against his home town team.

The versatile youngster is a candidate to replace suspended midfielder Charlie Oatway against lowly Lincoln.

Manager Micky Adams revealed: "Steve Melton will come into the equation. He has been on the fringes. He is working hard in the reserves and in training.

"He is a good professional who certainly would not let the side down."

Lincoln-born Melton has been a squad regular since signing a one-year contract in the summer.

Matthew Wicks suffered a minor reaction to his hamstring strain after coming on towards the end of Monday's 2-0 home defeat by Southend.

Adams added: "He is slightly stiff in the hamstring, but it is nothing major."