WORCESTER City manager John Snape paid tribute to his backroom staff after confirming health problems had been behind his recent absence.

Snape missed City’s home clash with Stourport Swifts and trip to Shepshed Dynamo due to the undisclosed illness but returned from his enforced sabbatical to preside over Wednesday’s 2-0 home victory over AFC Wulfrunians.

While the issue is ongoing, Snape is set to continue taking charge of first-team affairs as normal.

“I was not available for a couple of games due to ill health but I am back now,” said Snape.

“I might have to go back to see the Wizard of Oz but touch wood, I will be back properly moaning and groaning at referees, assistants and players for the rest of the season.

“There was a period of time when I needed to take a break from lots of things. Hopefully it will all be okay from here.

“I would like to thank all of the staff from Nigel (Upson) and Luca Gabriel (under-18s and reserve bosses), Simon Phillips, Aaron White, Mat Birley and Ashley Vincent. They took care of those two games and just as importantly, kept the boys buoyant.

“It was difficult not being here, any manager would tell you the same but it makes the situation that bit more bearable when you know you have such good back up from the people around you.

“The backroom staff are fantastic and they have been since I took the job. You have to be able to rely on the people around you in this game and I have the best bunch I could wish for.

“Ash has had to make some tough calls on players and showed he is more than capable of doing so in my absence.”

City’s latest success brought up four Midland Football League wins in a row ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Dunkirk (3pm) but Snape warned he would have to ring the changes.

Doubts linger over Dave Reynolds and Andy Gallinagh, both withdrawn during the first half on Wednesday through injury, while Jamie Smith serves a one-match ban for his red card at Shepshed Dynamo.

“There has been an improvement in the performances with a number of players coming back into the equation,” said Snape.

“Suspensions and injuries mean we will have to shuffle the pack but the competition for places is still there and the boys are aware of that.

“We’ve won four on the bounce and go into this one on the back of a clean sheet at home. It was a result that showed we can be clever when things get a bit ugly.

“It is about managing games sometimes and not getting involved in anything stupid.”