GRAHAM DAWE has admitted he faces a selection headache for Plymouth Albion's Championship clash against Rotherham at Brickfields on Saturday (3pm).

Albion return to league action for the first time since their superb 26-12 win at London Welsh on November 14.

Since that date, the city outfit have played two British & Irish Cup matches, losing 16-13 to Leinster and drawing 3-3 at Newport.

In those two cup encounters, Albion have used the opportunity to give some of their squad players game-time.

Utility back Mark Lee and forward James Waterhouse made their first starts for the club, beginning each of the matches.

In addition, prop George Porter also made his first Plymouth start at Newport, having made his debut as a replacement against Leinster.

This weekend, bar long-term injury victims Geoff Griffiths, Sean-Michael Stephen and Jaime Nava, Dawe is likely to have a full-strength squad to choose from with the return from international duty of Canadian lock Tyler Hotson and the expected comeback from injury of winger Liam Gibson and hooker James Owen.

Dawe has to decide whether or not to stick with the same XV which started at London Welsh – minus the injured Stephen – or keep faith with those players who have played well in the last two outings.

"There are certainly plenty of options to consider for the Rotherham game," said Dawe.

"Tyler is expected to be back from international duty, while Liam is back rehabbing and all the signs are he should be fully fit for Saturday's game.

"There are some tough decisions which need to be made."

Dawe added of the opportunity to give the likes of Lee and Waterhouse opportunities in the British & Irish Cup matches: "Mark Lee got his chance to play in the cup games due to form and James Waterhouse, who has got lots of ability, deserved his opportunity as well.

"Neither did their chances any harm. They helped the team and long may that continue."

Dawe was not giving anything away as to which side Albion were likely to name for Saturday's crucial match against Rotherham.

One big decision that has to be made is whether or not last season's joint top try scorer, Matt Hopper, retains his place in the starting line-up.

Tongan duo Sione Tu'ipulotu and Keni Fisilau have formed a superb centre partnership this season.

However, Hopper made his long awaited comeback from a serious ankle injury at Newport last Friday and produced a solid display.

"There was no reaction for Matt from Friday's match at Newport," said Dawe.

"He looked a bit short of match practice, but he will be back up to speed now."