Hereford will be a tough encounter says Brightwell

Macclesfield Town are the visitors at Edgar Street next Saturday and manager Ian Brightwell says it is one they are desparate to win.

"We've had Hereford watched, as we do every team and the reports I have received are that we are to expect a tough encounter. They've overhauled their squad in the summer and have brought in a combination of youth and experience," Brightwell told his Official Website.

"The defence will know they have been in a game as Trevor Benjamin will be leading their line. He's a big, strong lad and someone we are going to have to watch. They've also brought in two young lads from Watford on loan who look useful signings. But hopefully they will also be looking at our squad and wondering how they are going to cope with us. So all in all it should be a very close game and one we are desperate to win."

One of their players, Luke Dimech, is away on International Duty but Brightwell says he won't do a 'Jose' and blame the call-up for upsetting his plans.

"His absence gives someone else a chance however.

"On the injury front Carl Regan has responded well to treatment but at this stage we aren't sure if he'll be fit for Saturday. JJ (James Jennings) turned his ankle last week and he is having an x-ray to ascertain the full extent of the damage. And Michael Husbands should be available for selection this weekend."

Husbands played a couple of games for Hereford a few seasons ago but there will be more interest in winger Danny Thomas (pictured) who is returning to Edgar Street for the first time since he left at the end of last season.

Last season in the corresponding game Hereford United defeated Macclesfield 1-0. The scorer was Alan Connell.

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