Manager Jim Jefferies is hoping that David Wetherall will not need a second groin operation.

The consistent defender, who was out of action for three months in the middle of the season following groin surgery, has missed the last two matches against Tottenham away and Charlton at home with a similar injury.

He has had a scan and a surgeon is examining the results.

Manager Jim Jefferies said: "We are keeping our fingers crossed that there is no operation required. We shall know for sure once we get the surgeon's view of the scan."

Andy Myers is proving to be a capable deputy and played impressively as central defensive partner to Robert Molenaar in the last two matches.

Myers, whose natural position is left back, has shown great versatilty and City are reaping the benefits of his adaptability.

Jefferies has good news of two other injury victims.

Full back Ian Nolan has recovered from the knee injury he suffered while playing for Northern Ireland in their World Cup qualifying matches last month and was on the substitutes bench against Charlton, coming on in the last minute for Gareth Whalley.

Midfield player Jamie Lawrence has also recovered from his broken hand and will be fit to play in the reserves against Manchester City at Hyde United tomorrow.