Bucks’ Steve Thompson out for three weeks

Saturday 27th February 2010, 10:59AM GMT.

AFC Telford United are preparing to write forward Steve Thompson out of their plans for a minimum of three weeks.

The former Port Vale man suffered a hamstring injury in Tuesday’s 2-0 defeat at Northwich Victoria.

And assistant manager Larry Chambers admits the setback is a major blow to Telford’s hopes.

“Steve had a difficult time when he first came to the club but he has been playing really well recently and has probably been the catalyst for the upturn in fortunes,” said the Bucks No 2.

Thompson will head from his Sunderland home to Championship club Middlesbrough, where he began his career as a youngster, for part of his treatment.

“He’s got a good relationship with the staff there and he’s been able to go and see their medical people,” added Chambers.

“Up until Gareth Southgate left he was able to train there as well, but that stopped when Gordon Strachan took over as manager.”

* Blue Square Premier side Chester have been expelled from the Football Conference.

The Football Conference board recommended the action against the league’s bottom club at a meeting of member clubs at Rushden & Diamonds for rule breaches.