STUART Massey is resigned to losing captain Paul Scott after Dulwich Hamlet put in an approach.

The striker's probable exit means Whyteleafe will likely be down to the bare bones for a trip to Fleet on Saturday that the manager believes is vital if the team are serious about a play-off push.

But despite a string of injuries Massey is still hopeful that his side can enjoy further cup success, with Surrey Senior and Isthmian League knock-out contests to come in the next couple of weeks.

Massey said: "It looks like we'll lose Paul Scott to Dulwich. They've put in a seven-day approach and he's expressed to me he wants to go.

"We've been short of players and lost a lot very quickly and hopefully I'm going to get a couple in for the weekend but once players are settled at clubs it is very difficult."

Injuries and suspensions have been a problem, with Ryan Royston (hip) and Danny Oakins, who suffered ankle ligament damage in Saturday's defeat to Dulwich, the latest crocks.

Lee Sidwell will be available after taking last weekend off to watch his brother play for Aston Villa, although Steve was not in the starting line-up.

Striker Darren Watson should return, refreshed with the rest of the squad after Massey gave his players a Tuesday night off.

Massey said: "We've got a few lads with injuries and hopefully a rest will work in our favour.

"We need to strengthen a little bit, we need some more physical strength over the winter months."

Midfielder Daryl Coleman has two games of a seven-match ban to go and will miss next Tuesday's Surrey Senior Cup trip to Walton & Hersham.

Leafe took a point off the Swans, who are in the top five of the division and for whom three former Whyteleafe players scored in a 4-2 win over Croydon Athletic on Tuesday.

Graham Harper, Kevin Lock and Chris O'Flaherty will be familiar names to Church Road fans, along with Walton centre-back Adam Broomhead.

Massey said: "The game is definitely something for us to look forward to. The Surrey Senior Cup is something we can do quite well in.

"Then we have Godalming at home [the following Tuesday] in the League Cup, but first we need to get back on track in the league at Fleet.

"If we have got any serious hopes of success in the league this season we need to get something there." For full report of Saturday's game match visit our website.