RETURNING Chris McPhee is looking to get himself back up to full speed over the next few weeks, but admits with the Terras looking impressive, it will be a challenge for him to earn a place in the starting XI.

The Weymouth player-coach, who was an integral presence during last season’s campaign, has been limited to appearances as a second-half substitute so far this term after his pre-season was wiped out by a hand injury suffered at Bridport at the start of July.

Continuing in a bit-part role as a player this term, the 32-year-old was introduced in the 67th minute during Weymouth’s priceless 1-0 win over Kettering on Saturday, a success he believes shows the ability of the Terras’ current crop.

He said: “It was nice to get around 25 minutes and be part of a successful away result.

“Long may it continue in terms of results and performances.

“I just have to get myself fully match fit, get myself as many minutes as I can and start competing for my place in a side that’s doing well.

“At the moment the team are performing well and you have to wait for your chance.

“Everyone is pushing one another and it’s not anyone’s God-given right to walk straight back into the team regardless. You have to give respect and the accolades to the lads that have been doing the business.”

He added: “It’s not ideal pretty much missing the whole of pre-season but I have still been in amongst it.

“I still feel I need a lot of minutes and I will be doing bits outside of the club looking to get myself a little bit sharper and build my stamina up.”

McPhee also hailed the defensive capabilities of a Weymouth backline that has not conceded in three consecutive league outings.

“Clean sheets help win games, you just need to nick one like we have done,” he added.

“We are not scoring as many as we were last year but we are getting decent results and that breeds confidence right the way through the squad.”

  • Meanwhile, Weymouth have been drawn away against either Moneyfields or Petersfield Town in the first qualifying round of the FA Cup.

Dorchester Town face a home tie against Cirencester Town. The fixtures are due to take place on Saturday, September 12.