Shropshire Star

Telford are likely to be without quartet

Assistant boss Larry Chambers is not expecting AFC Telford United's injured quartet to recover in time for the trip to Boston United on Saturday.

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Dave Hibbert (quad), Paul McCone (ankle), Jon Royle (groin) and Jack Rea (toe) have all missed the Bucks' last two games – wins against Stalybridge Celtic and Worcester City.

Veteran striker Hibbert's injury is thought to be the worst of the four, and Chambers said: "I would think that all four are doubtful, and that we would be looking at the following game at Stockport on Good Friday.

"I will know a bit more after training (tonight) but I would probably say two or three will be looking at Stockport."

All four players were regulars for the Bucks before picking up their injuries. Hibbert has played 16 times from the off in National League North this term, while McCone, Royle and Rea have amassed 70 appearances between them.

On Hibbert, Chambers said: "I think Dave will be the longest one of the four.

"He has pulled his quad and that will probably take another 10-14 days

"With things like quads and groins, you can't rush them – you have to take your time – and toe injuries are hard to get over as well."

When asked if the 31-year-old will figure again this season, Chambers added: "I would like to think so."

Meanwhile, Telford are hoping to expand their youth system further. The club announced a new open age women's side for the 2017/18 campaign this week and are also hoping to introduce an under-21 men's team at some point to bridge the gap between youth football and the first team.

The likes of Benji Robinson and Dan Frances have impressed for the Bucks' Under-18s this term and have featured in friendlies for Rob Smith's side.

When asked about giving more youngsters a chance at the club's fans' forum, the boss said: "The one lad, Benji, I really like. We are looking, desperately, to get him involved."

Chambers added: "The plan was to introduce them slowly over the last 10 or so games but we haven't been able to because of the situation we were in."

On a potential under-21s team, director Andy Pryce noted, financially, it may be difficult but is something the club are thinking of.

He said: "It's something we have looked at but we are a little bit away from it at the minute."

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