WEYMOUTH are sweating on the fitness of a key trio ahead of Saturday's Dr Martens Premier Division curtain-raiser.

The Terras have major injury doubts surrounding defender Jamie Impey (back), midfielder Lee Phillpott (leg) and player-manager Steve Claridge (groin) for the trip to Hednesford Town.

While Claridge is keeping his fingers crossed the niggles will clear up in time for the clash at the Cross Keys Stadium, the former Portsmouth star says he won't risk playing anyone not fully fit.

He said: "Obviously it would be nice to go to Hednesford with everyone fit and a full squad to pick from.

But unfortunately that's not the case as Jamie, Lee and myself are suffering a bit with minor injuries and, at the moment, I'd say we're all pretty much unlikely to play. On a personal level, I'm struggling a bit still, but I hope that may change between now and Saturday."

The Terras boss said he was keeping his options open regarding the starting line up for the league opener against the Pitmen.

"Luckily none of the injuries are particularly serious," he said, "and hopefully a few day's rest will do the trick. There's still a chance we will recover in time and be deemed fit to play.

"But having said that, I certainly won't be risking anyone if there is even the slightest doubt about their fitness because that would just be counter productive in the long run.

"We've got a good squad and everyone is capable of doing a decent job for us. There is absolutely no point in risking having someone sidelined for five or six matches just for the sake of one game."

* Assistant manager Neil McNab says his future will be sorted in the next few days.

McNab initially joined the Terras in July for a month while he considered a coaching offer in the United States.

But a delay in receiving a visa to move aboard has meant the former Exeter City manager looks likely to remain with Weymouth for the coming season.

He said: "Although I initially said I'd only be here for a month, I'm enjoying every minute of it andwould be very happy to

stay and work with Steve.

"The situation has dragged on for quite a while now and if I don't hear any news on my visa in the next few days I think it's safe to say I'll remain with Weymouth."