AFC Telford battle injury crisis ahead of Cambridge test
Determined AFC Telford United chief Andy Sinton believes his side can overcome a crippling injury crisis to pass their screen test at Cambridge tonight.
No less than 10 Bucks players could be sidelined for the Blue Square Bet Premier clash, which is being broadcast live on Premier Sports (5.15pm).
But Sinton is confident his side can battle through those problems to maintain their encouraging start to the campaign.
"We're up against it but we will go there to be positive and try to win the game," he said.
"One or two players may have to go slightly out of position but this is where the squad comes in."
Telford's main problems come defensively with centre halves Chris Blackburn and Michael Briscoe likely to miss out, Dan Preston continuing a six-game suspension and left back Ryan Valentine a doubt.
That means new recruit Liam Chilvers is likely to step in.
Luke Hubbins, Jay Smith, Jake Reid and Chris Sharp are also unlikely starters while Sinton is fretting on two more possible mystery injury concerns.
"We could have as many as 10 out, and a few of them could be struggling for next week as well," he added.
Tonight's clash is only the second time that AFC Telford have appeared on television. Their previous outing ended in victory in the Setanta Shield final over Forest Green in 2009.
Meanwhile, new striker Darren Byfield is confident he and fellow Bucks hot shot Kieron St Aimie can form a strong partnership.
The former Walsall and Villa forward, who joined the New Bucks Head at the end of last week, played 90 minutes alongside the Bucks' top scorer in his club debut against Lincoln City.
Byfield, despite emerging from a long battle with a groin injury, believes the combination can reap rewards. Asked if the two could form a prolific partnership, he said: "We are different types of players so it can work definitely. He will hold the ball up more and play people in whereas I like to run in behind defences."
