By Matthew Panting

Welling midfielder Lee Clarke will miss the first two months of the season with a fractured cheekbone.

Clarke picked up the injury during Welling's final pre-season game at Chatham on Saturday.

It comes as a shattering blow to Wings boss Jamie Day, who is working with a small squad this season, ahead of this Saturday's Blue Square Bet South opener at home to Hampton & Richmond.

"Lee is going to be out for at least eight weeks," said Day.

"He had been on holiday and then worked hard to get himself nearly up to match fitness.

"He would have been involved on Saturday as he is a key player for us.

"But we've got players who can fit into the position and it gives them an opportunity to come in and do a job."

Picture: Lee Clarke in aerial battle against Chatham on Saturday. Picture: Steve Crispe