MATTY Clarke faces a race for fitness ahead of Redditch United's FA Cup trip to Kettering Town on Saturday.

The defender has been side-lined with knee trouble but boss Gary Whild hopes the former Hereford United favourite could be back in action for the trip to Rockingham Road.

Exodus Geoghaghan and Simon Hollis - two more of Redditch's walking wounded - made their return in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Blue Circle Conference North visitors Southport and Whild was delighted to have them back in the squad.

"Both Exodus and Simon have done what they had to do and seemed to come through unscathed apart from being tired," Whild explained.

"Both of them, along with Damien Markman, affected the game and we were back close to the level where I want us to be.

"It just shows that a club with the resources of Redditch United cannot afford to be without those sort of players.

"It was a big game for us, important that we put in a good display after two bad results. But the players did well and showed that we are more than capable of competing against the top sides in the league when we have a squad to choose from."

Clarke's injury meant midfielder Jai Stanley started at right back and showed some impressive touches after a shaky start.

"He seemed to grow into the position," Whild said. "He is a quality player and showed that on Saturday. A few years ago he was signed by Worcester City from Moor Green for £10,000 and regularly took teams apart with his passing from the middle of the park.

"He has had a couple of iffy seasons, he is the first to admit that, but he is only 28 and if he becomes half the player he once was then we have an excellent addition to the side."

Saturday's cup tie at Conference North leaders Kettering is one of the ties of the round and one that Whild is looking forward to.

"We couldn't have had a tougher draw but it means there is no pressure on us whatsoever," the manager explained.

"No-one is expecting us to do anything while, financially, it is a chance to make a bit of money."