By Andrew Gidley

Hythe Town boss Scott Porter says injuries and suspensions to key players have proved very untimely for his team.

Skipper Dave Cook (pictured) misses the Ryman League trip to Worthing on Saturday with a groin problem, while fellow midfielder Nick Barnes is ruled out for the next two games with a torn calf muscle.

However, the Hythe boss is boosted by the return of lynchpin defender Pat Kingwell, following the completion of a three-match ban, following his sending-off against Chipstead.

New signing James Everitt, who began his Reachfields career with both goals on his debut against Whitstable a fortnight ago, has also been struggling with a slightly tweaked hamstring.

Porter said: "Three games in a week made it very tough for us. Being without a midweek match this week has given us a chance to recharge the batteries.

"Pat is back at the weekend, and my brother Ashley has also returned from holiday, so will also be involved."

One point from two games against Leatherhead and Walton and Hersham derailed Hythe’s rapid climb from bottom to second in the space of the month and Porter said: "Dave, Nick and Pat have all been key players in that run which was a great achievement for everybody concerned."

Inconsistent Worthing sit 14th in the table, following six wins and seven defeats.