WEYMOUTH’S injury crisis has eased ahead of the Terras’ Vanarama National League trip to Eastleigh on Boxing Day (3pm).
Almost half the squad was missing from the 3-2 victory over Maidenhead last time out, with first-team coach Sammy Lander named on the bench and boss Brian Stock deciding against a playing return.
Josh Wakefield is back from suspension, while Cameron Murray (concussion) and Brennan Camp (hamstring) return.
However, the game comes too soon for recovering trio Ben Thomson (ankle), Andy Robinson (hip) and Myles Anderson (ribs).
Weymouth also boast new youth loanee Christian Saydee.
Stock has a touchline ban against the Spitfires due to his red card in the aftermath of the 3-2 loss to Wrexham.
The former Burnley midfielder admits communication from the stand to the dugout will be “key”.
He said: “The frustration and passion got the better of me.
“I’m fully aware of the mistakes – speaking to the referee in front of everyone.
“It’s not an ideal situation but I’m sure they’ll still hear my voice. Communication to the bench is going to be key.
“We’ve got walkie-talkies and we’ll probably have a runner as well, just to make sure that messages get across.
“But I’d like to think the majority of the work on Eastleigh has already been done and they’ll have a clear indication of what they’ll play, who they’ll play and what we’re going to do to combat that.”
Stock will also have dressing room contact with the players at half-time plus post and pre-match.
Eastleigh possess some familiar faces in their ranks, with former Weymouth winger Abdulai Baggie and ex-Dorchester wide man Tom Blair having moved to the Hampshire side.
On facing Eastleigh, Stock added: “Again, a very tough test.
“There’s never going to be an easy game in this league and Eastleigh have started the season very well.
“They’ve got some good players. I’m fully aware of their dangers and there’s no surprise they’re challenging for the top six in the table.”
