IAN Hutchinson has indicated that a return to action will only be considered as a last resort.

The Weymouth boss, who turns 38 in November, is backing his charges to turn a corner in this evening’s friendly at Wimborne Town but has not discounted the possibility of pulling his boots on again should performances fail to improve.

So far Hutchinson has resisted the temptation to add to his 558 appearances for the club but, following two disappointing displays from his side in last week’s draws at Bridport and Portland United, there have been calls for a possible return.

However, the midfielder remains 100 per cent behind his players and still believes they have the ability to step up to Zamaretto Premier Division level.

Hutchinson said: “With Wimborne having won promotion last year to Zamaretto Division One South & West, tonight is an opportunity for the players to show a reaction and prove they are capable of stepping up to this standard.

“It is true that I have had a few people whisper in my ear about the possibility of me going out and playing again but that is the last thing I want to do.

“I want the boys to go out there and take their chance and tonight they need to step up to the plate and show what they are made of.

“However, if an older head is required to help pull people around then playing myself is something I might consider.

“It is in the back of the mind but it is also a step I want to avoid if possible. I have been keeping myself fit but I am not getting any younger and have not got the strongest of ankles in the world so it will only be something we do if needs must.”

The Magpies, who are managed by ex-Terras’ captain Alex Browne, will no doubt be a tough nut to crack and Hutchinson has warned his men to expect a very competitive encounter.

He added: “I am good friends with Alex and his assistant Darren Powell and they have a very good side, who will provide a big test for us, so it is definitely a game where the lads will have to step up to the plate and deliver.”

Unfortunately, Hutchinson is likely to be without defender Simon Radcliffe and trialist Cheol Min-Kim this evening due to injury.

He said: “There is just no point in risking them at this stage although I have spoken to a couple of other players and there is a chance we could have a couple of new faces in the squad tonight, which I think we need.

“However, we have been let down a few times already this summer so until we see them turn up there is no point in naming names.”

Terras (from): Manley, Weeks, Tribe, Welch, Dixon, Oldring, Clarke, MacGookin, Reiffer, McKechnie, Ironside, Halloran, Emati-Emati, Charles, Whyton, Kemble, Marshallsay, Litherland.

* Bridport will entertain Portland United at St Mary’s Field tonight (7.45pm).