Workington Reds defender Sam Smith says he will make the most of being back in the first team after shaking off his calf injury.

The left-back got hurt in the 3-2 pre-season friendly victory over Kendal early last month and was expected to be a long-term absentee.

But the 27-year-old has recovered faster than expected and returned to action last weekend against Sutton Coldfield Town.

He also appeared against Blyth Spartans on Bank Holiday Monday and is likely to feature against Warrington in the FA Cup tomorrow.

Smith said: "It's great to be playing again. Nobody wants to miss the start of the season.

"I played a few games in pre-season and felt ready. But I'm back earlier than expected and I'll hopefully be back at 100 per cent soon.

"I feel like I've missed out and when you're sat there watching, you feel helpless. I will do whatever I can to help the team get back to the top of the table."

Tomorrow's opponents Warrington are ahead of Reds on goals scored in the league standings having been promoted last season.

The Wire made the second round of the 2014/15 FA Cup competition after beating League Two side Exeter City, but eventually lost to Gateshead.

The winner of the tie will receive £3,000 and progress to the second qualifying round.

Reds were knocked out at that stage last year by National League North side Harrogate Town after beating Colwyn Bay 5-0 in the round before.

The players were due to train last night as normal, but defenders Gari Rowntree and Anthony Wright will definitely miss the game.

Smith added: "I think it will be a challenge tomorrow. They won their league last year and we know it's going to be a tough game.

"We saw what Blyth did a couple of years ago and it will be good to try and push on, get a bit of money and make it in the competition.

"It's good that the FA Cup has come this weekend as it's a little bit of a break from the league."

Meanwhile, captain Rowntree has confirmed he is due to return to first team action at the start of October.

The defender has had an operation on his knee.

He said: "It shouldn't swell up now. I've just got to build more muscle and hopefully it'll be fine.

"I can't wait to get back involved and start playing again."

Kick-off at Borough Park is at 3pm.