Hampton & Richmond Borough boss Alan Devonshire has revealed the fitness of Barrie Matthews is a major concern with the Blue Square South kick-off less than a fortnight away.

The 26-year-old midfielder was sent for an MRI scan last week to discover the root of an ankle problem that has troubled him since the end of last season.

Devonshire, who signed Havant & Warterlooville midfielder Jamie Collins only a fortnight ago, is tracking possible replacements with the West Ham United legend set to add Maidenhead winger Ashley Smith and Basingstoke Town striker Dave Tarpey to his squad.

Hampton have welcomed back defender Craig Tanner after long-term injury, but are facing up to the fact Matthews, an influential performer in the side since joining the Beavers in 2006, could be also be in for a length spell on the sidelines.

“We are waiting the results of the scan on his ankle and we are hoping it is not long-term,” said the manager.

“He is still struggling with an ankle problem he has had for a while. It will be a blow if it is and it is unlikely at this stage he’ll start the season.”

Tarpey, 20, and Smith, 24, are expected to complete formalities on their moves to the Beveree to take Devonshire’s summer signings to three, following Collins’ arrival.

All three have impressed the former England winger, but it is the return of Tanner - back after breaking his leg last season - that has left the Beavers boss purring.

“Ashley can play in a few positions and will be a real asset, while Dave has looked very lively up front in the time he has been with us. It is likely they’ll be signing,” he said.

“Jamie is a player I’ve liked for a while and he has fitted in very well straight away. Getting Craig back is liking getting a new player. He was our best player last year before he got injured and is already looking good again.”

Hampton lost 2-1 to Walton Casuals on Thursday night - with Nana Badu and Keiran Knight catching the eye up-front - with their goal coming from Lawrence Yaku.

But Devonshire, who has barely changed his starting 11 in five years at the club, warned some players who featured in that clash were drinking in the last chance saloon.

“There are always a lot of players around you want to have a look at and we still are, but for some Walton was their last opportunity,” he added.

“I don’t really know my preferred starting side yet, but there will be eight or nine familiar faces and room for a couple more to push their way in.”

Trialist Joey Collewijn is unlikely to be offered a deal to start the season with Hampton.