Canvey Island boss Jeff King will leave it late before deciding who takes the place of injured midfield star Jeff Minton for tomorrow's Nationwide Conference clash at Exeter City.

Shooting star - Gulls' prolific striker Lee Boylan returns to his former club Exeter City tomorrow hungry for yet more goals Picture: LUAN MARSHALL

Gulls' large travelling party made the trip to the West Country today and there are a number of options for the manager.

Minton is out for up to 10 weeks after breaking a metatarsal bone in his foot during last week's 3-3 home draw with Tamworth.

Ty Gooden came in when Minton was forced off after only 18 minutes in that match, but Ollie Berquez is another player who could come in for consideration.

At least one more change will be necessary as Jon Keeling, who played left wing-back in that match, serves a one-match ban after being sent off for receiving a second yellow card in injury-time.

That might mean a recall for summer signing Matt Joseph into the right wing-back role and Chris Duffy switching to his usual position on the left. Alternatively, Neil Midgley could return.

After seeing his side concede three goals last week, King may plump for a change in his central defence.

If he does veteran Peter Smith may be favourite for a rest with either summer signing Dominic Sterling or back from holiday Steve Ward coming in for a first game of the campaign.

Sterling has been sidelined by a groin problem so far, but both he and Ward came through unscathed from Wednesday's reserve outing with East Thurrock United.

King said: "Obviously with Mints out and Jon suspended we will have to make changes for Exeter, but I'll leave it late before making a decision."

Published Friday August 27, 2004

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