Workington Reds general manager Derek ‘Degsy’ Townsley admitted that, due to a frustrating sequence of injuries, he was unsure which 11 players will start the season when the Evo-Stik campaign gets under way on Saturday week.

He made the remark after a goalless draw in their latest pre-season outing at Lancaster City but assured supporters that the team, whatever the permutation, would be ready for the opener at Rushall Olympic.

“I have never known a pre-season like it for niggling injuries but we’ll be ready for August 13,” said Townsley.

Asked if Kyle May would start the season, Townsley confirmed he wouldn’t.

“Gari Rowntree, Anthony Wright and Kyle won’t feature in the opening game but, hopefully, all the others will be in contention,” he added.

“May has signed for the season on a non-contract basis and will be available if we need him.”

Reds’ defensive options improved at the weekend when Sam Smith returned to the fold for his first outing of the summer. He has a lot of catch-up work to do, having missed the entire pre-season, but is a timely addition to the squad.

Last season’s top-scorer Scott Allison, who saw his first-half penalty saved by City keeper Mike Hale, is one of several players not yet 100 per cent fit. He started the game up front alongside new recruit Nathan Waterston who impressed on his first start.

Allison was later replaced by former Lancaster City favourite Tom Kilifin who failed to score against his former colleagues. But Kilifin has created a favourable impression in a red shirt so far.

Former Workington manager and current Lancaster Under-21 coach George Norrie believes Reds have recruited a good player.

“I have known Tom since he was 16 and he is a natural finisher, an out-an-out number nine best deployed through the middle,” was his advice.

Townsley, whose father passed away in the build up to the game, also discussed the Reds’ captaincy.

“Gari Rowntree remains club skipper while Jake Simpson and Sam Smith have deputised in his absence. One of those two will wear the armband at Rushall,” he said.

Reds now prepare for their final pre-season fixture at Kendal Town on Saturday.