Tommy Doherty is facing a delayed start to his City career.

The former Northern Ireland international, hailed as Peter Taylor’s biggest capture of the summer, has not featured in the friendlies after injuring his calf on the second day of pre-season.

Doherty and Michael Flynn, who were both left behind from City’s southern tour, could return to full training later this week.

But while Taylor believes Flynn can make the League Two season-opener at Shrews-bury in ten days’ time, he is not so optimistic over his former Wycombe playmaker.

Taylor said: “I think he is struggling for the first match. Flynny is ahead of him and has got a chance but Tom is doubtful.

“It’s very touch and go. He needs to play some part against Rochdale and Park Avenue.

“If he doesn’t play at all on Saturday then I don’t see him playing any part against Shrewsbury.”

Doherty, twice named in the League Two team of the year, is keen to get going again after finishing last season playing in Hungary for Ferencvaros.

Taylor has a few injury worries but is confident that the midfield is well stocked to cover his absence.

“Obviously being out is a blow for him but it happens,” said Taylor. “That’s really why you need two players in every position.

“On Saturday we played Lee Bullock in there and he did well. Then Simon Ramsden went in there and did well, while Tom Adeyemi and Luke O’Brien also look the part.

“So we have different options available.”