Newport County have been rocked by the news that defender Andrew Thomas has a fractured leg after a penalty box collision in the 4-0 defeat by Chippenham on Wednes-day night.

Exiles boss Peter Nicholas confirmed that Thomas, an integral part of the County squad, has fractured his tibia and will be out for at least six weeks.

Thomas was rushed to the Royal Gwent Hospital after being stretchered off before half time in what was believed to be just a precautionary measure, but the damage has turned out to be worse than was feared.

Nicholas said: "It is a blow for us because he is a good lad and he has done well for the club.

"He has been a vital part of the squad so it is disappointing for him and it is very disappointing for the club."

Meanwhile, Nicholas is set to bring back the big guns on Saturday for the visit of Worcester City and have their sights on a top five place in the Dr Martens Premier Division.

The County boss has come in for criticism from fans for the team selection in the cup match, which saw several big name players rested, but the Exiles boss is set to recall them for the vital league clash.

Maximum points for the Exiles could see them go as high as third if results go their way as many of their league rivals are in FA Trophy action.

Nicholas said: "The big guns will come back in for the Worcester game. It is a vital match as they are a good side and there is only a point between us.

"They are a tough side and very hard to beat but we have been doing well recently. "We can go right up the league with a win, so it is all there for the players."

Recent loan signing Jamie Moralee is set to start after missing out on the cup, as are Scott Morgan, Nathan Davies and veteran Jeff Eckhardt, the latter back to shore up a defence that leaked four goals against Chippenham.

Newport County (from) D Roberts, T Evans, G Lloyd, A Williams, J Eckhardt, S Morgan, N Davies, S Williams, J Moralee, G Shephard, G Phillips, G Jones, J Phillips, R Plant, G Wesson.