INJURY-HIT Fairfield Villa will not be hitting the panic button, stressed vice-chairman Paul Oakes.
Just four games into the new season a string of first-team players are set for lengthy spells on the sideline.
Scott Holiday (knee), James Finn (groin), Pete Jenvey (knee) and Dan Wilkes (hamstring) could be out for at least three to four weeks while its unknown at this stage when Ben Smith and namesake Scott could return to the fold.
Added to that, winless and second-from-bottom Villa are also without DJ Pitt (suspended) for Saturday’s Midland League Division Two clash against basement boys Pelsall Villa.
Despite the absentees and poor start to the new season, which was compounded with a 3-2 defeat to local rivals Droitwich Spa on Monday, Oakes is adamant Villa are not in crisis.
“Winning is a confidence thing and once we get those first three points I have no doubt that we will push on,” he said.
“Most teams have injury problems but we are talking about first-team regulars who are missing and it is only being highlighted because it is at the start of the season.
“We are not at panic stations and I feel sorry for Wayne (Davis – manager) because the finger gets pointed at him for our poor start.
“I am convinced we are going to see the real Fairfield Villa soon and hopefully that will start on Saturday.”
With numerous players unavailable, Oakes has managed to bring in Chris Lowe from Alcester Town and is also hopeful of bringing in Kieron Smith from Studley.
The Villa chief also revealed he was hopeful of bringing in another striker.
