WINSFORD United could well be forced to kick-off the new season without three first choice players - including key playmaker Mark Quinn - this weekend.

Midfielder Quinn suffered a suspected fractured arm in the 3-0 friendly win over Crewe last week and was due for another check-up yesterday, Tuesday.

Manager Dave Twite will know tomorrow, Thursday, if his man will be in any state to play the team's season opener at home against Oldham Town on Saturday.

Another doubtful is defender Ian Wilkinson, who has still got a swollen ankle from the clash with Crewe but has had some treatment.

Meanwhile, first choice keeper Matt Tucker is on 'best man' duties at a wedding and will not be available for Saturday's curtain raiser.

But there is a silver lining for Twite in the resurgence of Chris Webber on the wing.

Twite said: "Chris has struggled pre-season with injuries, but he came back last week and had a good 45 minutes.

"He shined for me and has pushed himself into the squad for Saturday."

Despite the injury problems he now faces, the manager has been boosted by a good pre-season.

Twite said: "Things have gone very well pre-season. We've kept clean sheets in our last three friendlies, which is good.

"The two centre backs have teamed up well, the centre midfield pair have done well and the strikers have played well.

"It's a brand new side and I'm pleased with the way they've worked hard."

Twite is expecting a physical match against Oldham Town, but believes his side will rise to the challenge.

He added: "Because we were in early pre-season, fitness is not a problem. Our attitude is good and we're good on the ball, so I think we'll cause Oldham problems.

"Losing Quinn is going to be a big blow to us because he's a key play maker. In this league, it's going to be physical.

"They're young lads and the physical side does concern me but we've got to stand up and be counted.

"I just hope we can get the three points."

Simon Williams will stand in for keeper Tucker and Martin McGrath will take Quinn's midfield spot if he is deemed unfit.

And if need be, Ray Sweeney will probably stand in for Wilkinson.