CHRISTCHURCH boss Adie Arnold insists Moneyfields will present formidable opposition with or without former Premier League star Vincent Pericard.

Ex-Juventus, Portsmouth and Stoke striker Pericard came out of retirement to make his debut for the Sydenhams Wessex Premier leaders in the 1-0 win at Folland Sports on Tuesday.

The 32-year-old experienced discomfort in his hamstring as a result and admitted he did not expect to be fit for tomorrow’s home clash with Priory (3pm).

“If he is injured then we’ve dodged a bullet,” joked Arnold, who has launched seven-day approaches for two defenders.

“But to be fair, they are an excellent side with or without him.

“It would be a good test for our centre-halves if he were to play but it wouldn't make our job any easier if he didn’t because Moneyfields are a very strong side.

“We will try to put on a show and if we were to get anything out of the game then it would be a bonus.”

Elsewhere, boss Ken Vaughan hopes Bournemouth Poppies can snap up striker Carl Foster in time for tomorrow’s home clash with high-fliers Petersfield Town (3pm).

Injury victim Ben Sullivan will miss Lymington Town’s fixture with rock-bottom Totton & Eling (3pm) while Manny Soetan has departed for Conference South St Albans City.

Off the back of a 1-0 loss at Whitchurch United on Wednesday, Verwood Town entertain AFC Portchester. In Division One, New Milton welcome East Cowes Victoria to Fawcett’s Field (both 3pm).