It's a miserable time to be a Grimsby Town supporter, winless in 13 matches and currently without a manager after Russell Slade's dismissal.

The bond between fans and players seems to have broken down, with Scott Vernon recently accused of making obscene gestures at his own supporters. That has now been 'put to bed' according to the Grimsby Telegraph, but it is a fragile peace.

The trap door to the National League looms large and with promotion-chasing Exeter City due at Blundell Park this weekend, things don't look likely to improve any time soon. However, one player is back available for selection and it could be the boost the Mariners need to kick start their season.

Siriki Dembélé has been out injured since the end of January, suffering with a back problem. He's now fit and available for selection, a boost which might give stand-in manager Paul Wilkinson some momentum to carry forward. Dembélé is a rising light in an otherwise dark period for Grimsby, he's quick and nimble and likely to get fans off their seats for something other than protesting.

Dembélé is a former Dundee United youth team player who benefitted from a year's spell at the Nike Academy run by former Wolves striker Jon Goodman. His direct running and lightning pace has impressed at Blundell Park this season and his return is huge for Grimsby.

Of course, Exeter will be no pushover coming off the back of a 2-1 win against Crewe Alexandra this week. Grimsby desperately need a result, even a draw to begin to instil confidence in a side struggling for form and cohesion.

The Verdict

Dembélé is an exciting player and he can galvanise the fans somewhat. Whilst the club's problems rage on, long-suffering fans would love something to cheer after a torrid few months.

A Grimsby win would cheer their local rivals too, Exeter are two points above Lincoln City in the league. However, one player's return isn't likely to change a whole club's fortunes and I think a draw is the best the home side can hope for.