NEIL Ross could be hitting the headlines this weekend in the FA Cup just days after being released by Macclesfield Town.

The young striker, who left Moss Rose last week after two seasons with the club, has been taken on by Dagenham and Redbridge in time to face League Two side Leyton Orient in the East End derby this weekend.

Daggers boss John Still has said he needs more physical presence in his front two, and brought Ross to train with the club this week alongside former Luton Town and Boston United striker Stuart Douglas.

The derby is one of several games being closely monitored by the BBC for an extended highlights spot on Match of the Day, and could be featured in a main slot should a shock occur.

Ross was signed from Stockport County for é35,000 by former Macc manager Dave Moss, but was injured on his home debut against Exeter City.

The Birmingham-born 22-year-old made just six more starts for the Silkmen, but was expected to feature more prominently this season after shrugging off a series of niggling hamstring and back injuries.

Ross was loaned out to Northwich Vics and Tamworth this season, and transfer-listed in September before finally being released from the club.

Macc Town boss Brian Horton told Express Sport earlier this week that the striker still has a bright future in the game away from Moss Rose.

"We have already got Matt Tipton, Jon Parkin, Mike Sheron, John Miles and young Tommy Rooney, so we thought it would be best for both parties if we let Rossy go," he explained. "He's a good lad, and we wish him well in the future, but we decided to come to an agreement for the best."

Horton added that he is still in the market for new players, but would not be looking for an immediate replacement for Ross.

Meanwhile, Mark Bailey has been ruled out of Saturdayés trip to face Alfreton Town after failing to train on an ankle injury. Simon Weaver, Tony Barras and Matt Carragher also picked up knocks against Mansfield Town this week and have missed some training, but all three should be available for selection at the weekend.