Dartford boss Ady Pennock has played down fears over an injury to key midfielder Samir Carruthers.

The gifted 31-year-old missed last weekend’s pre-season opener against Charlton amid suggestions he could miss the start of the campaign,

But Pennock played down any suggestion that Carruthers faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

“I’m not too sure, we’ve got to keep an eye on him,” responded Pennock. “Personally, I think he will be ready for the start of the season. We’re just being a little bit cautious.

“He’s come in and trained with us, he’s a great character on and off the pitch but more importantly he’s a great footballer as well.

“We’ve got to look after him and I’m hoping he’ll be ready for the start of the season - there’s nothing too much to worry about.”

Carruthers rejoined the Darts in the summer after one season away at Chelmsford. His signature back at Princes Park was a real sign of intent from the club following their relegation to Isthmian Premier.

Pennock admitted it is a blow to their plans that Carruthers will miss a large chunk of pre-season but he’s glad that the problem has come now rather than further down the line.

“It’s a blow but I’m not worried about it,” added the Dartford boss. “I would rather he have a little niggle of an injury now than have it at the start of the season.

“If we were starting the season now, I’d be worried but I’m quietly confident he’ll be ready for the start of the season.

“Hopefully it’s an old injury that has blown up a little but we’ve just got to be sensible and look after it.”