Rob Smith backs duo to play big part in survival fight

Both players made welcome starts in last week's 1-0 National League North defeat at Boston United after missing several games with respective hand and knee injuries.

Smith is a fan of both the midfielder and experienced striker – even though he didn't sign them – and expects both to figure heavily in the coming months ahead.

"It was good to see them back and they definitely made a big difference to us as well which was a big bonus," said the Bucks chief.

"The plan was to only give Dave 60 minutes but he lasted the full 90 so that was a real plus. As for Jack,the way he played it looked like he'd never been away so I've got no problem with either of them going forward.

"They're both big players for us. I like Jack –he likes to get about people and battles which is just the type we need in the predicament we're in.

"Everyone looks up to Dave because of his experience. He's a massive character and I get on with him really well.

"He's really bought into our philosophy of what we want to do so it's just important that we can keep him fit.

"With those two fit and Mike Grogan playing again, we're getting there. I do feel once we get one win, we'll go on a run because we're not relegation material the way we're playing."

Meanwhile, Smith believes he is only two players short of the strength of side he wants to beat the drop.

The former Hednesford boss has made nine signings since his return to the New Bucks Head last month to replace Steve Kittrick.

And although he still wants to add a couple more new faces, he stressed the need to shed players as well as he tries to balance the books.

"I'm probably one or two players away from where I want to be, but we need players to go out," he said.

"We're trying to do that but as yet there's nothing. But a day is a long time in the life of AFC Telford!"