Pullan is nearing full fitness following a month out with a thigh strain and an achilles problem.

The key defender hopes to be selected at play-off chasing Braintree to ensure he is back to his best in time for Tuesday.

Pullan said, "I would have been ready to play at Newport but I had a niggle in the achilles and that's what made me miss the game. The thigh feels fine now, I have done some training and it felt okay.

"If selected I would like to get 90 minutes before the play-offs. Ideally I could do with 180 minutes because it's been nearly a month out of action.

"But I feel fit enough and I just need to get that match sharpness back."

With Pullan, Ben Austin, Matt Smart and possibly Allan Tait set to return, the Boro squad is nearing full strength which gives the management team of Garry Wilson and Nick Greenwood a selection dilemma.

Pullan added, "The players who have come in have done very well. They kept a clean sheet against Bath and they got a great draw at Newport.

"The lads are playing well and if they bring a few of us back we could get stuffed if we are not on the pace. It's a difficult one."

A cagey Wilson said, "We want to go to Braintree and win but we have to assess the needs of the squad as well.

"Braintree are one of a few sides in with a chance of the play-offs. We want to pick up some points but we have also to think about Tuesday."

In a reversal of fortunes from last season. it is Braintree who need maximum points to reach the play-offs.

Last year a battle-weary Boro failed to claim the victory they needed but this year head coach Greenwood says they are more relaxed.

He said, "We have to strike the right balance. Of course we want to win but we are also aware that Tuesday is around the corner.

"We have no preference who we face in the next round. Logistically we do not want another trip to Wales but we certainly would not fear facing Newport. They are an experienced side but we showed we can cope with that.

"We have experienced the play-offs before. It will be tight and winning your home leg is always vital. Whoever we play will be tough and we have to make sure we are as prepared as we can be."

Leading scorer Andy Atkin is suspended for Braintree but returns on Tuesday.

Neil Jenkins is available despite yet another booking at Newport. Jenkins had just returned from suspension after picking up 10 yellows for the season.

Ben Austin returns from suspension and Nathan Crabb (back) is fit after playing an hour at Newport.

Out-of-favour Adam Wilde is likely to travel to Braintree with Evan Archibald, Sam Crabb and Ross Treleaven.

Going to the play-offs?
FANS wishing to travel by coach to the first leg of the play-offs on Tuesday, April 29 should contact Les Baker on 01323 735378 before Saturday.