SUSPENSIONS threaten to wreak havoc with Phil Mullen's plans to get Evesham United off to a successful start in the Dr Martens League Western Division, writes Mervyn Collins.

Gresley Rovers visit Common Road for Saturday's opener and, with away trips to Solihull and Taunton to follow, the Robins have a tough trio of starting matches.

Andy Smith, Mark Wolsey and Matt Gardiner will all be missing due to bans held over from last season, while Scott Mullen starts a seven-day suspension on August 26.

Gardiner, a former Hereford central defender, signed for Evesham on Tuesday and he won't be the last to put pen to paper according to Mullen.

"I'm still chasing a forward and waiting a decision from ex-Worcester City man Nathan Jukes," the Common Road chief revealed.

"Nathan has played three seasons at Worcester and will be a useful asset. If he decides to sign then he will probably fill in at the back on Saturday," said Mullen.

Jukes joined recent recruit Darren Bullock in central midfield last Saturday and the pair certainly impressed their manager.

"They ran the show," Mullen recalled. "They've both got the experience that I have been searching for and they will definitely do a job for us."

Gresley, who won 4-1 at Common Road in March, are now managed by former Leeds defender Jon Newsome and will prove a tough test.