Ref. 26130c-33MATT HEWLETT is threatening to increase Town's midfield injury woes with the skipper struggling to lead the charge into the Dragons' lair tomorrow.

The 28-year-old received a kick on the hamstring during Wednesday's win over Grimsby and only a late fitness test will determine whether he can take his place against Wrexham.

Hewlett reported for treatment with physio Dick Mackey yesterday feeling 'stiff and sore' and a session in the pool followed, in a bid to cool the injury and reduce the swelling.

Although time looks to be against the Bristolian, he is hoping that the injury will improve sufficiently in 24 hours to allow him to start against the Welsh outfit.

He said: "If it had been a pull rather than a kick, then I'd have no chance. As it is, I'll just keep ice on it and hope there's some progress. It's touch and go at this stage though.

"We're getting towards the final push now and no player wants to be missing games."

Many fans thought the captain's armband would revert back to Andy Gurney after the Plymouth Argyle defeat but the role remains Hewlett's for the time being.

He said: "The gaffer told me to keep hold of it and I'm enjoying the role."

Mackey will be doing all he can to help Hewlett lead out the team tomorrow but is making no promises.

He said: "We'll have to see how it settles down. I'm hopeful but it will be a case of making a late decision."

Mackey's other 'patient' is Stefani Miglioranzi. The New Yorker is getting stronger after his ankle sprain and Mackey looked on as he pounded the slopes of Lawn in Old Town yesterday.

However, his progress is not sufficiently advanced to allow him a return.

As for other knocks, Mackey said: "Sammy Igoe took a bang on the nose the other night but he'll be fine."

Meanwhile, the club has received confirmation that Andy Gurney will serve a one-match ban for his dismissal at Plymouth.

The 30-year-old will miss the home match with Barnsley next Saturday.

Brian Howard's ban has yet to be confirmed but the indications are that his two-footed lunge against Grimsby will see him miss matches against Peterborough, Bristol City and Luton next month.

Town were due to begin their journey to North Wales this morning before being put through their paces in a training session ahead of tomorrow's match at the Racecourse Ground.