GRAVESEND & Northfleet's FA Cup preparations for Saturday’s fourth round qualifying tie at Exeter have been hit by the loss of Adam Miller who has quit the club.

The midfielder’s decision to sign for Aldershot stunned manager Andy Ford who had earmarked him for a return from suspension at St James Park.

Though the club had offered Miller a contract, Ford confessed they could not compete with Aldershot’s offer. Miller joined the Fleet on a non-contract basis last month following his release by Swindon after trials at the County Ground.

The trial was cut short after he punctured a lung. He was previously with Ryman League Canvey Island and Grays.

“It's a blow and his decision came as a bolt out of the blue,” said Ford. “Had he stayed, he would have played at Exeter."

Saturday’s reward for the winners will be £10,000 from the FA’s prize fund.

Steve Perkins misses the tie through suspension leaving Ford with a selection poser. Should left-back Justin Skinner recover from an ankle injury, the problem will be solved as Matt Lee will revert to his customary position at right-back.

Skipper Lee Shearer is out with a shoulder injury so Francis Duku will continue to partner Chris Moore at the heart of the defence. Adrian Pennock is fit but is not match fit, while Robin Trott is out until February with an ankle injury.

Should a replay be necessary, it will be at Stonebridge Road on Tuesday, kick off 7.45pm.

The draw for the first round proper will be broadcast live on BBC1 during the Final Score programme at 5.05 on Saturday.