Whitstable Town boss Lloyd Blackman will call on his squad depth as his side look to deal with multiple injury setbacks.

Connor Sanders and Liam Dickson were both forced off in the first-half of Saturday’s win over Three Bridges.

They join a list that also includes TJ Jadama and Marcus Evans, the latter of whom faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

Blackman said: “Connor is definitely out at the weekend. We aren’t having the best of luck with injuries.

“Marcus Evans is probably out for months rather than weeks which is unfortunate.

“Connor went over on his ankle which has ballooned up to the size of a beach ball. We don’t believe it’s broken, but the X-rays returned inconclusive so it’s difficult to say at the moment.

“TJ will have a fitness test on Thursday (today). He’s been struggling with a niggling ankle injury.

“We managed to pull Liam Dickson out of the game just in time, we got him off just before he strained his calf so hopefully there’s no long-term issue.

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“Leo Mazzone scored the other day which was great, he’s been getting more minutes.

“I had to thrust him in earlier than we’d have liked to. It’s just his match fitness that needs improving.

“Young Josh Spencer has done really well, Harry Stannard is back, Taylor Fisher is playing well and then Johnny Walker is chomping at the bit on the bench to get his chance. It’s nice to have competition in the squad.”

The Oystermen are also hopeful of extending Marshall Wratten’s stay at the club, with the Dover winger having arrived on a month-long loan on September 14.

“That’s our intention, he’s been marvellous for us,” said Blackman.

“I've not put too much pressure on him, I've just allowed him to express himself and play with freedom.

“Obviously that's something we'd like to do, whether we can we'll wait and see.

“He's enjoying it here and he's contributing as well, he got two assists in the game the other day which was pleasing.

“He's playing, so both clubs are benefitting really.”

Whitstable are back in cup action on Saturday as they host Ware in the FA Trophy first qualifying round.

Blackman has welcomed the competition as a timely opportunity to continue building momentum while potentially boosting the club’s finances.

He said: “I’ve had great experiences in the FA Trophy in my career and it’s provided some of my highlights.

“I know those days can present a memory that will stay with you, it’s massively important.

“I know the financial side really helps. For me, if you get on a run not only does it improve confidence and keep things moving forward but there’s also an opportunity to earn a little bit of money and of course progress into the later stages.

“You never know what can happen in these competitions, you may go on to get a good day out.”

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