Boss Rob Smith today rued the injury that has threatened to bring a premature end to AFC Telford United midfielder Gary Fitzpatrick’s season, insisting: “He’s our unsung hero.”The 36-year-old suffered a foot injury in last weekend’s 3-1 victory over Harrogate and was sidelined for the trip to Stalybridge Celtic this afternoon.
Despite the return of the tough-tackling Jamie Vermiglio from a broken metatarsal - Smith is quick to point out just how big a blow that is.
Fitzpatrick returned to Telford midway through last season and was in and out of the side as the Bucks secured promotion from the UniBond League.
But he got himself in peak condition for the 2007/8 campaign and has been rewarded with a regular place in the side.
“I think Gary has been a bit of an unsung hero for this season,” said Smith. “He’s played really well in there and he doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves.
“We’ve got some good midfielders, and a fit Jamie Vermiglio would always be in my team, so it’s great to have him back.
“But I don’t think you can overlook the contribution Gary Fitzpatrick has made. He’s done well for us this season and he’s a serious contender for my starting line-up when they’re all fit.
“We’ll assess him during the week and I’m hoping he’ll be available for when we go to Burscough (next Saturday).”
Southport’s 2-0 victory at Nuneaton last night means Telford still needed three points to secure their play-off spot going into today’s games.
* Tickets are selling fast for Telford’s end-of-season presentation evening, which is being held in a marquee on the New Bucks Head pitch on Saturday, May 10.
Priced at £22.50, fans will get to see all the main awards handed out, as well as enjoying a buffet and disco. Tickets are available from the New Bucks Head, and more than 100 have been sold already.
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