Assistant manager Larry Chambers is calling on AFC Telford United’s supporters to play their part in a late season surge – starting with tonight’s crunch clash with Eastwood.

It’s the beginning of a huge week for the Bucks, who follow tonight’s visit of the Badgers by hosting another play-off rival – Stalybridge – on Saturday.

Talks were continuing today in a bid to add a new striker to the squad, and the Telford No 2 wants the supporters to close ranks and get behind the team.

The Bucks dropped out of the Blue Square North’s top five as a result of Droylsden’s 2-2 draw with Gloucester last night, but would jump to fourth with a win over Eastwood.

“It goes without saying that these are two huge games, because these are our competitors (for the play-off positions),” said Chambers.

“I’ve always believed that this season could go to the wire because it’s so unpredictable. If you were a betting man this season, you would have lost a fortune on the Conference North.

“It’s a massive week for us, and we’d like the fans to really get behind us and give it one big surge together.

“In recent seasons they’ve done that, and tonight that might be the deciding factor.

“They probably don’t realise what a massive part they could have to play.”

Meanwhile, Chambers this morning admitted their hopes of adding to their squad for tonight’s game were in the balance.

“Negotiations are continuing and the lad’s quite keen to come,” added Chambers. “Talks are ongoing and we’re positive, but there are no guarantees.”

Forward Steve Thompson (hamstring) will face a pre-match fitness test before any decision is taken on his involvement this evening.

Winger Sean Evans is definitely out, serving the second of a four-match ban, but Chambers and boss Rob Smith otherwise have a full squad available.

By CHRIS HUDSON