Smith is handed selection dilemma

Boss Rob Smith has declared his AFC Telford United team ready for the start of the new season – and admitted that he has already got a selection headache.

The Bucks chief was delighted with his team's performance during Saturday's encouraging 3-0 win against Llanelli.

Second half goals by Steve Torpey, Andy Brown and Jamie Vermiglio ensured that United finished their pre-season campaign boasting six wins and a draw.

He said: "It counts for nothing, I know that, but it was important that we had a good pre-season – and we have.

"I think we've been ready for a week now. It was important to get through Saturday without any injuries, but we're there now and they've given me some real headaches.

"You would probably get 1,500 people picking a different team for next weekend (against Blyth Spartans).

"We'll need to have a report on Blyth first and have a look at that and then sit down on Wednesday and decide the team.

"There are going to be some very disappointed players."

Injured defender Stuart Whitehead is likely to miss that match – but Smith is happy with the cover he has at his disposal.

Jimmy Turner started alongside Gavin Cowan against Llanelli – with Carl Rodgers dropping back from his role in midfield in the second half.

Smith reiterated: "If we get too many injuries then I'll have to knock on the chairman's door – but at the moment I've got Jimmy there so why would I want anyone else?

"And there's Rodgers who can also slot in – he is better than 90 per cent of the centre-halves in this league.

"Versatility has to be the key because we haven't got the money to go out and get anyone else."

By SEAN WOZENCROFT