Rob Smith is gearing up for a battle with one of his “stalwarts” tonight — as AFC Telford aim to continue playing catch-up in the Blue Square North promotion race.

The Bucks will aim to move within six points of a play-off spot when they travel to face a Solihull Moors side which features defender Indy Khela.

He was Smith’s first signing at Telford, and spent over five years working with the Bucks boss – including a spell at Willenhall – before being released in the summer.

But Smith insists there will be no room for sentiment tonight.

“Indy has been a stalwart of mine over quite a few years and it will be strange seeing him in the opposition shirt tonight,” he said.

“I’m sure he will be wanting to put on a good performance but all I’m focussed on is the way we play.”

Solihull also include another ex-Buck, striker Matty Lewis, in their squad, but Telford enter the game with renewed optimism after two victories and clean sheets over Blyth in the FA Cup and then Workington.

But Smith is aware the run can’t end there if they want to force their way up the table from their current 10th position.

“It’s all about consistency for us,” he said. “We have fallen behind in the league with some poor performances and we are playing catch up.

“Tonight is our game in hand so it’s an opportunity.”

There is no place for midfielder Carl Rodgers who again sits out with a foot problem with a view to him returning for Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Lincoln.

By JAMES GARRISON