Last updated at 10:42, Saturday, 13 October 2012

Workington Reds will definitely be without captain David Hewson and his midfield partner Phil McLuckie for today’s long trek to Oxford City.

Phil McLuckie

Hewson suffered a knee injury, and boss Darren Edmondson refused to risk his general before next weekend’s FA Cup fourth qualifying round clash with Mansfield.

While McLuckie has work commitments, and did not travel with the squad to their midlands base last night.

Jake Simpson, who was on the verge of joining Kendal last month before Town pulled out of a deal, is believed to be in pole position to start after his midweek exploits.

The son of ex-Manchester City and Carlisle United player Paul netted the decisive goal to send Workington through to the final qualifying round of the FA Cup.

Simpson’s half-volley ensured Reds progressed to face Mansfield Town, and Edmondson said: “We need to be careful with David, which is why he’s not playing.

“David is one of those players who is disappointed every time they can’t play, but it’s important he rests and is back to face Mansfield.

“And we’ve always known Phil wouldn’t be able to commit to every game with his new job.

“That gives others in the squad, who are desperate to play, a chance.”

Oxford sit a play-off spot with 20 points from their 11 fixtures, but have struggled at home.

Edmondson said: “This is a game where we definitely believe points can be won. We don’t have two regular first team players, but Will Vaulks has been in incredible form.

“Mark Boyd’s passing can also be a dangerous weapon for us, so we have the back-up to win the game.”

First published at 10:33, Saturday, 13 October 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk