AFC Telford boss Rob Edwards happy with Jack Rea impact
Rob Edwards has hailed 'leader and thinker' Jack Rea as a key member of his AFC Telford United squad.
The midfield battler limped off out of Saturday's 1-0 victory at Darlington and will be assessed as the club hold four days of training this week for the first time in the season.
Edwards expects the Bucks' longest-serving player, who was replaced after the impact injury by Kieran Dubar in the north-east, to recover from the problem and not face a lay-off that will put him in doubt for this Saturday's visit of Bradford Park Avenue.
The boss praised the 25-year-old's commitment to the cause throughout his reign so far, explaining that the the Manchester-based teacher is a vital cog within the playing ranks.
"Jack has seemed to get a knock in almost every game he's played so far but he's that type of player," said Edwards on Rea, who signed for the club from Bradford PA in January 2015.
"He's a combative, committed midfielder and also an honest person. He's a real team player, very intelligent and a good speaker as well.
"I think a nice insight for the fans is that before the Darlington game we had a meeting, where players can bring things up, and he more often than not gets things going.
"It's because he's been there before. He knows what's coming, he's been a big help to me.
"Jack's not started every game but you can't question his commitment. When he comes on you get a fully committed Jack Rea."
Two other Bucks players on the road to recovery are forward John Marsden and left-sided defender Jordan Gough – who of whom have been regular features for Edwards in the early stages of his tenure.
Both missed the cut for recovering in time for Telford's clash at Darlington, though Edwards admitted it was close, but should be OK once being assessed in training at Compton in Wolverhampton this week.
"I'm hoping to have them both available," Telford's boss added. "Goughie's had an on and off hip problem for a while now that has stiffened up recently but he should be OK. Marso rolled his ankle at Curzon.
"They should be both OK. Marso's work rate has been absolutely top notch and Goughie is a committed and strong personality."
