Hereford United have doubts over Harry Pell and Stefan Stam for Gillingham trip (From Hereford Times)

Hereford United have doubts over Harry Pell and Stefan Stam for Gillingham trip

8:50am Friday 3rd February 2012 in Sport By Richard Prime

HEREFORD United may be without the services of midfielder Harry Pell when they head for Gillingham on Saturday, looking to extend their unbeaten away run to four matches.

Pell appeared to jar a knee and had to receive treatment from physio Ian Rodgerson in the closing stages of last Saturday’s home defeat by Shrewsbury.

He was unable to train on Monday on Tuesday and was due to have a scan yesterday (Wednesday).

Pell’s absence would be a blow to a Bulls side already lacking key defender Stefan Stam who has been told to rest in a bid to shake off an ongoing knee problem.

Stam’s organisational ability is always missed in his absence and United’s record is far superior when the Dutchman is in the side.

The 16 league games he has started have brought five wins and five draws with just six defeats.

When he has not been in the line-up, United have lost eight of their 12 matches, with just one win and three draws.

On a positive side, Benoit Dalibard will be available to return after his three-match ban.

In the continuing absence of Joe Heath, the young French defender could slot in at left-back, allowing Rob Purdie to move up into midfield should Pell be unable to play.

There are hopes that Simon Clist may be able to play some part at Priestfield Stadium as he begins his comeback trail after injuring a groin in the win at Dagenham & Redbridge.

Tuesday’s transfer deadline day brought no arrivals or departures at Edgar Street.

But one move means that the Bulls will be likely to come up against a former hero in a couple of weeks’ time.

Midfielder Ben Smith has moved from Crawley Town on loan to Aldershot Town who entertain the Bulls on February 14.

Smith has spent much of this season on loan at Kettering Town and then Woking.