Dependable captain Shane Killock is on course to return as AFC Telford United aim to climb into the top half of the Blue Square Bet Premier table at Southport tomorrow.

The 22-year-old defender was forced off at half-time in Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Newport County and missed the draw at Tamworth 48 hours later with a rib problem which caused breathing difficulties.

But Killock completed a sufficient part of training last night to move back into the thoughts of boss Andy Sinton for the trip to Haig Avenue.

“Shane did enough training to come into contention,” said Sinton. “It’s a boost and it gives us a chance to assess our options.”

Striker Adam Proudlock and midfielder Carl Rodgers are also pushing for a place in the 16 for the first time this season as they continue their recovery from injury.

The Bucks visit Southport in 14th place and knowing victory will take them into the top half of the table.

But – despite Southport only surviving last season because of the demise of Rushden and Liam Watson’s men winning just one of their five games so far – Sinton has braced his players for a tough afternoon.

“They had a reprieve last season and won’t want to be in the same position again,” he added.

“Some people might look at this and think it’s going to be one of the easier games of the season but – rest assured – it will be one of the hardest because we know how they play.

“We probably should have had another three points on the board but we have started the season well and haven’t looked out of our depth. We are holding our own but we have got to keep going now.”

By JAMES GARRISON