Assistant manager Larry Chambers hopes AFC Telford United can hit the ground running when they return from an enforced three-week break at Stafford Rangers tonight.

The Bucks have suffered from three consecutive postponements in the Blue Square North since going down 2-0 at Hinckley United on December 28.

And Chambers admits they could be a little rusty when they return to action at Marston Road this evening (7.45pm).

“It seems a long time since we last played,” he said.

“I’m hoping the break hasn’t done us too much harm, and the players will be gagging for a game.

“We’ve continued to train hard, but it’s hard when there’s nothing at the end of the week.

“Stafford had a great win on Saturday as well (3-1 at Gainsborough). They lost a couple of players last week, but their manager Chris Brindley has got a tight squad together.”

Chambers and boss Rob Smith must decide whether to throw the former Wolves midfielder straight into the starting line-up or introduce him off the substitutes’ bench.

The 24-year-old formally signed non-contract papers with the club last night as he bids to step up his comeback, almost a year after retiring due to a nerve injury.

“He’s looked after himself and he’s in good shape, but he’s not played competitive football for 10 or 11 months so we have to take our time with him,” added Chambers.

Midfielder Carl Rodgers had flu over the weekend but is expected to feature, while Liam Blakeman will require a fitness test after going over on his ankle in training on Saturday.

Striker Andy Brown and right-back Lee Vaughan are both suspended this evening.

Stafford go into the game on the back of their excellent win at Gainsborough, which included two goals from on-loan Stoke City teenager Warwick Alexander.

But they have won just twice at home this season in 11 attempts.