Skipper Stuart is hurting as a sub

Whitehead has started just one of the Bucks' last nine Blue Square North fixtures, with boss Rob Smith preferring the partnership of youngsters Shane Killock and Adam Dugdale.

The 33-year-old has become a regular fixture on the substitutes' bench, but remains eager to force his way back in and play a part in a late play-off push.

"It's hard not to feel frustrated, especially when you're supposed to be the captain of the team," said Whitehead.

"Possibly the worst thing that happened for me was that I played against Blyth Spartans and we lost 4-0.

"Everyone had an off day so the gaffer's understandably gone back to what he had before. Shane and Duggy have done well, too. I'm not happy about it and I want to be playing, but I've accepted the situation."

Results elsewhere went Telford's way last night, with two of their play-off rivals losing games in hand.

Fifth-placed Droylsden were thrashed 5-0 at Alfreton, while Stalybridge Celtic lost 1-0 at home to title-chasing Southport.

And Whitehead wants the Bucks to capitalise on the opportunity they have to muscle into the top five.

"It's a young team and it's probably a confidence team," he added. "We know the players are good enough, but we have to get the mental side of it right as well.

"We've got nine games to go, and if we can win seven of them then we'll be there or thereabouts.

"We know that's going to be difficult because we haven't put a consistent run together all season, but we have to start now."

• Conference officials were expected to make a statement later today on crisis club Farsley Celtic, who look set to be thrown out of the Blue Square North.

By CHRIS HUDSON