Smith’s dilemma after new blow

Rob SmithBoss Rob Smith is pondering a raid on the transfer market – as Martyn Naylor became the latest player on the AFC Telford United injury list.

The right-sided 31-year-old pulled a thigh muscle during Tuesday’s 2-0 defeat at Southend in an FA Cup first round replay.

He joins midfielder Jamie Vermiglio on the sidelines, and Smith is worried about the impact of too many injuries on his already-small squad.

Vermiglio had to sit on the bench at Southend even though he was not fit, and Smith believes he may be forced to look for reinforcements.

On Naylor’s setback, he said: “It doesn’t look good.

“It’s not a nice injury and if it’s only a strain then he could be out for two weeks but if it’s worse then it could be up to six weeks.

“He did it when he had a shot just before half-time. He didn’t catch it right – if it had gone in then he probably would have been fine.

“It’s frustrating, as it would be with any injury at the minute. Numbers-wise we’re very low so losing a few players to injury is my No 1 fear.

“To maintain our recent run we can’t afford too many injuries, and it may be we have to add to the squad. It’s something we’re actively looking at.”

One boost for Smith is the return of defender Jimmy Turner for the trip to Gainsborough Trinity in the FA Trophy on Saturday.

Turner has completed a month on loan at BGB Southern League side Bromsgrove, and Smith believes he is now fully recovered from the knee injury that ruined the first three months of his season.

“It’s a big bonus for us,” said Smith.