AFC Telford still down to the bare bones

The injury-plagued Bucks handed run-outs to a number of fringe players and those on the return from injury in last night's friendly against Market Drayton Town.

Izak Reid, Sean Clancy, Mike Grogan and Ryan Rowe also got some game time under their belts in the fixture, which replaced a training session.

Despite the FA Trophy being further down on his list of priorities, Smith noted that players may be rushed back from injury to get a squad together to take on Chester at the New Bucks Head.

Left-back Darren Campion has been struggling recently with a shoulder and knee injury.

Smith said: "With the injuries we have and the fact that some players are cup-tied and not allowed to play, we are down to the absolute minimum on Saturday.

"We'd love to progress, but we could be going into it with 12 fit players. We've got to be realistic, but we'll give it a go and whatever side we put out - we'll be asking to win.

"Camps is still injured and I don't think he'll be ready for Saturday, but he might have to be involved."

Pacy wide man Izak Reid, who has been out since September, will not be ready for a competitive recall until after the Trophy clash.

Smith said: "Izak is probably ahead of where we thought originally. I didn't expect to see him playing this side of Christmas.

"But they're still in rehab from their injuries and will have to build up fitness."

And Smith added: "There are plenty of them that haven't played much football. You have the likes of Greg Wilkinson and Mike Grogan, who haven't been involved.

"Eddie Toner has just joined and Ryan Rowe hasn't had much time."

Dwayne Samuels (groin), who has not played since early November at FC United of Manchester, has been rated 50-50 for the Chester visit.