DORCHESTER Town manager Tom Killick is 'hopeful' he will be returning to the dugout this weekend.

The Magpies boss was absent for the trip to Swindon last weekend due to illness with coaches Glenn Howes and Brian Churchill stepping up.

In his absence the team picked up their second defeat in as many games as they were sunk 1-0 by Supermarine. 

The illness last weekend is not related to the sepsis he contracted in August which saw the Magpies boss miss several games at the beginning of the season.

Despite his absence and illness, he is confident that he will be on the sideline against Bracknell this afternoon.

When asked if he would be returning to the dugout today, Killick said: "I'm hoping so.

"If everything goes the way I am hoping it goes and as long as it settles then I am hoping to be there."

The Magpies form has dipped in recent weeks having scored just once and losing three times in their last four games.

A return in the dugout will therefore be a welcome boost for the club and the payers as they look to get back on track with their promotion charge.