Sinden signs for Kent Leaguers VCD Athletic

Friday 27th October 2006

Ashford Town midfielder Gary Clarke is expected to return to action within six weeks, according to the club’s physio this week, writes Stephen McCartney.

Clarke collapsed in agony during the first half of Ashford Town’s 3-2 defeat at Bourne Park against Maidstone United on 18^th October.

But Mo Alvi explained that Clarke’s injury is not as bad as first feared.

He told www.ashfordtownfc.co.uk : “Upon initial assessment it was difficult to diagnose the injury as Gary was in a huge amount of pain.

“Therefore at the time all we could deduce was that an injury to the left knee meant that Gary was unable to weight bear, and as such the paramedics were called out.

”Since then, however, x-rays have confirmed that no bones were broken. I am almost convinced that there is damage to the cartilage of the left knee, but this can only truly be confirmed by an MRI scan (to be conducted this week).

“When the diagnosis is confirmed, Gary will have to undergo a surgical procedure which 'washes out' the knee joint. This will then be followed by a few weeks of intensive rehab (with yours truly), and hopefully Gary should be back playing within 4-6 weeks.

”May I also add that although the facilities at Sittingbourne were not great. The stewards were very helpful and the procedure was carried out as quickly as possible.

“The main delay was due to the arrival of the paramedics. With regards to the time spent with Gary on the pitch; in a situation of this nature it is essential that I thoroughly investigate the problem, and that no rash decisions are made.

“The majority of the time was spent immobilising the knee and then actually getting Gary on to the stretcher with minimal pain. As I'm sure you all understand, in such cases the safety of the player is paramount, and my only priority.”

Meanwhile, Kent League side VCD Athletic have completed the signing of Ashford Town striker Richard Sinden and much travelled striker, Leroy Huggins.

Vickers boss Martin Ford had hinted about his transfer activity on his website notes on www.vcd-athletic.co.uk earlier in the week.

He said: “I am confident that we will at last have a new striker on board for Thursday’s match against Slade Green.

“He comes with a very high pedigree and is someone I have been chasing for most of the season.

“I am sure you will all be delighted with him if he performs to his ability. He will certainly frighten a few centre halves I can assure you.”

Visit Ashford Town's website: www.ashfordtownfc.co.uk

Walton Casuals v Ashford Town
Ryman League Division One South
Saturday 28^th October 2006
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Franklyn Road Sports Ground, Waterside Drive, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey KT12 2JP