MARK Jermyn has called the loss of Franklyn Clarke a huge blow after the midfielder had his appendix removed on Thursday night.

Clarke is set for a six-week spell on the sidelines after playing just three games since returning to the club from York City earlier in the month.

In those games he made a real impact, including a goal against Chesham United in a 3-2 victory.

Now, the player-manager has to plug that hole with another one of his forward players – David Jerrard filled in against the Poppies but, Jermyn understands the importance of Clarke’s injury.

He told Echosport: “It’s a massive blow. Not only is he one of our best players but he brings so much to the team,

“It’s very frustrating because we don’t have the biggest squad and we don’t have the funds to replace him.

“We have to roll on with it and make do with what we can.”

Jerrard played in Clarke’s number 10 position and his manager was very pleased with his performance.

He added: “He did really well. He didn’t look as match fit as I’d hoped but, he did really well.

“He is very good on the ball and he put people through well and I’m very happy with the way he played.

“He just needs to find some consistency and hopefully he will be in the team more often than not.”

Jerrard will be hoping to cement his place in the side on Tuesday against Cinderford Town.

He will face competition from Ben Wood and Tom Blair as well as Nathan Walker.