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Whites gear up for huge survival test

UPBEAT: Clive Walker
UPBEAT: Clive Walker
IN CONTENTION: Craig Cloke has recovered from a back injury
IN CONTENTION: Craig Cloke has recovered from a back injury

Dover Athletic v Salisbury City

DOVER are preparing for another 'must win' game as they battle against relegation in the Ryman Premier Division.

They entertain Salisbury City, who currently lie one place above the relegation zone, and defeat would make manager Clive Walker's task of keeping Whites in the division even more difficult.

Last weekend's 2-1 reverse at Heybridge Swifts was another blow to the Whites’ survival hopes and they still lie 11 points inside the drop zone, having played more games than their rivals.

However, Walker is remaining upbeat about his side's chances.

He said: "I was aware of the problems regarding the league position when I came here and knew it was going to be tough, but I am still confident we can do it. We just need to worry about ourselves and hope that we can go on a run.

"This Saturday, like every one of our 12 remaining games, is one we have to win. We have 21 points to play for at home and we need to pick up as many of them as possible"

Whites should be boosted by the return of skipper Craig Cloke after his back problems and Matt Carruthers is likely to have recovered from the thigh injury that saw him withdrawn early on against Heybridge.

There may also be a recall for Dale Skelton after he returned from his recent loan spell with Walker’s former club Chatham. Skelton, along with youngster Walid Matata, may come into contention to replace Shane Hamshare who serves a one-match ban on Saturday for an accumulation of bookings.

Walker is also hopeful Craig Wilkins will be able to take some part in matches over the next few weeks. Last year’s top scorer is set to have some painkilling injections in his back.

The rest and recuperation the striker has had over the last six weeks has improved his condition but he will be monitored carefully. Walker rates Wilkins "very highly" and wants him to add some much-needed aerial threat to his forward line.

Clive Walker spoke to KM-fm sports editor Simon Watts ahead of the match...

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