MATT Hewlett feared his knee 'nightmare' had returned to haunt him before a specialist reassured him that his season was not about to end in tatters.

The skipper is definitely ruled out of today's trip to Peterborough United but a lengthy absence is not anticipated.

Hewlett's left knee swelled up 24 hours after the Port Vale clash and having spent almost six months on the treatment table during his first season at the County Ground, he was concerned the problem may have resurfaced.

However, a trip to Swindon's Great Western Hospital yesterday did not see his worst fears realised.

He said: "The specialist seemed to think it was probably a touch of bone bruising and that a period of rest should do the trick.

"As it swelled up, I feared the worst. I didn't want to go through that nightmare again.

"The specialist didn't feel a scan was necessary at this point though and I'm obviously hoping a rest will do the trick."

Manager Andy King acknowledges his skipper's absence today is a blow.

He said: "He has been our best player in recent weeks. The boy has been fantastic.

"You talk about determination, work ethic and an attitude to win football matches, well Matty personifies that. As captain, he has been a leader and led from the front. He has set the standards for the rest of them."

The Town boss will also be without goalkeeper Rhys Evans today. A thigh injury means a rare start for Bart Griemink, who steps out against his former club.

King said: "Only Rhys' consistency and performances have kept Bart out. If Rhys had had a slump in form I'd have had no hesitation in bringing Bart back in."

Despite enforced changes, King sees today's match in simple terms.

He said: "It's quite simple, our second half display at Port Vale gets us a result at Peterborough, while our first half performance will see us lose."

Only six matches remain after today and it becomes an increasingly anxious time for managers, players and supporters.

King said: "Teams are becoming nervous. That's called pressure and the worry of crossing the finishing line.

"I've always had positive thoughts about my team though. Every time I've asked them for something, they've reacted.

"And no matter what happens this season its been a wonderful year.

"Attendances are up and people are enjoying coming to watch Swindon Town again.

"Play-offs or automatic promotion would make it a great year.

"These players have been magnificent. I believe they can cross the line and I just hope they have as much belief in themselves as I have in them."

Youngsters Michael Pook and Luke Garrard are included in King's squad today.