Former Watford FC keeper set to start for Wealdstone

Aug 21 2010 By Tim Edwards

Hastings United v Wealdstone

Jonathan North is expected to start in goal for Wealdstone at Hastings United today. 

Manager Gordon Bartlett was hoping to plunge first choice keeper Sean Thomas into action despite a holiday curtailing his pre-season involvement. However, Thomas damaged ankle ligaments minutes before Monday's 1-0 pre-season win over Enfield Town.

With Thomas' understudy Sam Beagle nursing a shoulder problem Bartlett has little option but to hand a Ryman Premier League debut to 19-year-old former Watford stopper North, who has impressed on trial. Another trialist, Shane McWeeney, should provide cover on the bench.

The only other players missing the trip to Pilot Field are Callum Martin (injured) and centre half Alan Massey (unavailable).

“Sean turned his ankle in the warm up and we do not know how long he will be out for,” said Bartlett. “It is not ideal preparation but Jonathan has done very well for us in the last few games and seems to have taken his opportunity.”

A question mark remains over the right-back position following Marvin McCoy's departure to Wycombe Wanderers, although captain and left-back Lee Chappell has deputised there in the last few games.

Trialist Dan Gerrard, defender with Edinburgh-based Spartans, came on for Chappell at right-back on Monday and the club will continue to monitor his progress.

“I have said to Chaps that if we do not sign anybody (for the right-back position) I see him starting there,” added Bartlett. “He is not natural there but is capable and willing to do the job.”