City hit by injury to key defender (From Worcester News)

City hit by injury to key defender

8:30am Thursday 4th March 2010

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WORCESTER City fear Mark Clyde faces a lay-off with the knee problem which cost him a career at the top level.

The former Northern Ireland and Wolves defender retired in February 2007 because of reactive arthritis but returned to the semi-professional ranks with City last summer.

He has been one of the best performers for the St George’s Lane side this season but has been struggling with the injury of late.

Clyde could only manage 45 minutes against Lewes at the weekend and was not involved in Monday’s 1-0 victory over Maidenhead United.

The assistant manager is doubtful for Saturday’s match against Hampton and Richmond at St George’s Lane.

To make matters worse, fellow defender Wayne Daniel has a back problem and captain Tom Kemp is struggling after aggravating his shoulder injury against the Magpies.

Caretaker manager Heeley may look to draft in centre-half cover and hasn’t ruled out taking to the field himself.

He said: “Mark’s really struggling, his knee’s flared up so I’m not optimistic. It’s a similar type of injury that retired him from the game so we’ve got to keep a close eye on him.

“It’s a shame and he’s a massive loss because he’s a big character but we have to get on with it. If Mark’s not available we have to get on with it without him.

“Tom Kemp has hurt his shoulder again but hopefully that will settle down for us. I’ve got Rob Elvins who can go and play in there and it’s great to have somebody like him in the side.”

He added: “I would never rule out playing but if I can avoid it I will. It’s needs must at times.”

With Shabir Khan’s four-match ban kicking in next week, Heeley also has the option of using new signing Tom Beahon at left-back should Clyde, who can also play in that position, not be fit.

Former Tranmere winger Beahon has joined from the Glenn Hoddle Academy in Spain and made his debut against Maidenhead.

Heeley said: “I’ve signed Tom with a view to him playing at full-back. With Mark Clyde’s injury doubts, I need an option there and Tom gives me that.

“He’s got great pace, he’s an athlete and got a lovely left foot. He’ll be an asset to us and hopefully we can keep him until the end of the season.”