CHRIS McPhee’s hopes of featuring for the Terras on the opening day of the season now look highly unlikely, manager Jason Matthews revealed.

Around two weeks ago, the Weymouth boss refused to rule out a miraculous recovery coming from the former Brighton man.

But giving another update on his status, Matthews claimed the 32-year-old’s chances of featuring at Cambridge City in Weymouth’s first league clash look slim.

“It’s not looking like Chris will be able to start the season because of his hand,” Matthews said.

“He has had it out of plaster now but is it very tender and he can’t afford to chance damaging it again.”

Playmaker Chris Shephard revealed via social media this week that he is targeting a return from injury in September. The Terras are also hopeful of midfielder Mark Molesley being back in action by the weekend.

Weymouth take on Hamworthy United in a pre-season friendly at the Bob Lucas Stadium tomorrow (7.45pm).

Matthews was denied the chance to view trialists Kailan Gould and Josh Grant by a waterlogged pitch at Taunton Town on Friday but insists he is still keen to examine a range of fresh striking options.

He added: “They will be in this week and we will take a look at them. A few other forwards have also come to light that I will be speaking to.”

  • Meanwhile, Bradley Asagba's Weymouth Reserves are set to take on Poole Town Under-21s at the Bob Lucas Stadium this evening, in what is their first pre-season friendly on home turf (7pm).

Admission for the reserves' clash is priced at £5 for adults and £3 for concessions.