WORCESTER City could be without eight first-team regulars for tomorrow’s trip to Dunkirk (3pm).

Andy Gallinagh is the subject of greatest concern with manager John Snape expecting his defender to be “on crutches for a couple of weeks” after suffering knee ligament damage in Wednesday’s 2-0 home win over AFC Wulfrunians.

Striker Dave Reynolds misses out with ankle ligament damage sustained in the same match but could be back inside a week after X-rays showed no breaks.

Player-coach Mat Birley (calf) is unlikely to make the cut with late fitness tests for Joel Caines (ankle) and Jordan Harrison (hamstring). Jamie Smith serves a one-match ban, Luke English is unavailable and goalkeeper Dan Jezeph has been temporarily recalled by parent club Tamworth.

Snape said: “Andy’s is the more severe injury and he will be on crutches for a couple of weeks.

“He is getting better every day but we don’t anticipate him appearing for at least a fortnight.

“I am really disappointed for him. Since coming in he has galvanised the backline no matter what shape we have played.

“One thing in his favour is how fit he is, he looks after himself which will no doubt aid his recovery. He will be back as soon as he is ready but not before, though, we don’t want him to rush and then break down.

“Thankfully Dave did not suffer a break. He had it checked out at the hospital and saw a physiotherapist on Thursday.

“Knowing him he will be fighting to be available for next weekend but that depends on him keeping his foot raised and iced in the meantime.

“I think Mat will be unavailable and that’s a real blow because it is plain to see how much he is enjoying his new role, his football is doing the talking.

“The other injured lads could come into the equation, we will see but whatever happens we will be relying on the youth set-up.

“We have some great young lads champing at the bit to play. There will be at least three brought into the squad for this one and this is a chance for them to shine.

“The versatility of the side will help as well. Tyler Weir can play anywhere on the right, Jordan Harrison can play in a number of positions, so can Liam Lockett, Chris Withington and Joel Caines.”

Meanwhile, Snape reserved the final word for City’s fans on the back of a midweek victory watched by a crowd of 317.

“I’d like to acknowledge the crowd on Wednesday night for their full backing,” he added.

“It was a very healthy gate and the support was tremendous. It really does make a difference.”