Striker doubt ahead of Heed’s long haul
GATESHEAD could be without inform attacking player Wes York for their big six-pointer on the south coast tomorrow.
The Heed set off for the long trip to Dover today with 10-goal York a major doubt after missing training this week.
The Midlander has been among the goals lately and his pace and direct running are integral to the side’s style of play.
Manager Neil Aspin said: “York has a bunion on his toe which is really painful and he has not been able to put pressure on it.
“He has done very well for us since he got back into the side but may have to miss this game, which is unfortunate.”
The Tynesiders are carrying a tight squad and three other players are also battling to overcome injuries.
Left-back George Smith, goalkeeper James Montgomery and new loan signing Jake Wright all face fitness tests.
Sheffield United loanee Wright and Montgomery both have groin injuries while Smith picked up an ankle knock in the draw at Eastleigh last weekend. It is hoped all three will be available for a game Gateshead cannot afford to lose and ideally could do with winning.
On the plus side, James Bolton played 90 minutes in a practice game against Newcastle United Under-23s in midweek.
Luke Hannant, who tweaked his hamstring last week, is also fit and could be a replacement for York if Aspin goes with the same system. Aspin added: “Whoever plays at Dover will be ready. “We have to go there and be positive and try and score goals. “After the draw at Eastleigh we have to try and win the game and we certainly will not be sitting back. “A lot of things come into the equation but I would not like to come away from Dover having not done everything we can to win the match.” It is a showdown between two of the leading scorers in the division, Dover with 72 goals and the Heed 66. The Kent outfit, who have the league’s leading scorer in 32-goal Ricky Miller, trail Gateshead by one point but have played a game less. Aspin said: “Both sides are capable of scoring goals and Miller is having a fantastic season, someone we will need to keep quiet.” Midfield man JJ O’Donnell is part of the Tynesiders’ squad for the first time for more than two years after being sidelined with a rare foot complaint.