WINSFORD United have already lost giant centre back Simon Turpin through injury, days after signing him from Leigh last week.

Boss Kevin Tully's injury nightmare continued as he still searches for the wins that will put his side back in contention to stay up.

The loan signing of Turpin, who was man of the match against Fulham in last season's FA Cup tie, is further proof that Tully can attract quality players, but every onehe has signed since taking over has subsequently become unavailable.

At present, Turpin has ankle ligament damage, as has Mike Turner, Brad Pates is sidelined with a groin strain and Lee Jones is serving a 33-day suspension.

Tully said: "I'm just as frustrated as the supporters because I've signed players and they have got injured and not had a chance to get a feel for the team. The squad isn't strong enough to handle key players being out.

"The board have been fair and told me to get what I need. They have given me full backing to sort the back four out, which I've tried to do but players have got injured. I can't use it as an excuse for results but it doesn't help."

Winsford's latest defeat, their 11th straight in the league, was at home against Worksop Town, 3-1, on Saturday.

The disastrous run leaves the manager under no illusions about this weeekend's trip to Frickley Athletic.

"It's a massive game and we've got to win," said Tully. "I think three wins will put us right back in it.

"Teams above us like Barrow and Droylsden have big wage bills and aren't getting anywhere so there wil be a lot of negatives at those clubs.

"But here things are looking more positive every week and I nearly have every player I want fit."

Tully is tracking a striker, currently with one of the UniBond Premier's top six clubs, who he was watching last night (Tuesday).

Carwyn Williams is on his way to Bamber Bridge, and Mark Bailey has gone to Leek Town. Both soon to be followed by Darren Quick.

Tully won't be loking over his shoulder at any of the departures.

He said: "I can only play players who want to play for WInsford and give 100 per cent. At the end of this week the players who don't will have gone and the club will have got money for them."

Darren Olliver, who was signed from Runcorn over a month ago, is set to finally make his debut at Frickley, being fully recovered from injury.

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