Hereford United's hopes of completing a fourth Nationwide Conference League double when they meet Woking at Edgar Street on Saturday received a blow with the news that influential midfielder Ben Smith could miss the rest of the season.

Smith, who is the Bulls' second leading scorer with 13 goals, dislocated his right shoulder in the 5-2 away win at Gravesend and will probably require an operation.

United boss Graham Turner confirmed that it was the same injury that Smith suffered last year in the pre-season friendly at Bromsgrove and said: "It looks as if his season is over and we hope that if he does have surgery then he will be cleared to start next season."

However, there was better news about Jamie Pitman who is set to return to the squad for the visit of Woking when fears that he would need a hernia operation proved unfounded.

Ryan Green has also returned to training after a hip injury but remains doubtful for Saturday's encounter.

Central defender Anwar Uddin and midfielder Chris Palmer have returned to their respective clubs, Bristol City and Derby County, after loan periods and Turner is hopeful that he will sign a couple of replacements before Woking's visit.

West Brom's versatile defender Tamika Mkandawire, who impressed in a two-month loan as cover for Andy Tretton before Christmas, was his main target.

United will be aiming to keep their pursuit of leaders Chester on track by following up their 1-0 October win at Woking with a home victory.

Turner said: "This is a chance to further our promotion aspirations and put our poor home performance against Burton behind us. Hopefully, we can show our fans some of the goal-scoring form that we have displayed away from home."

The HFA have invited Forest Green to play United for the Herefordshire Senior Invitation Cup, the match scheduled to take place at Edgar Street on Saturday, March 27.

Hereford have now received the £5,000 from Sky TV for the televising of the Boxing Day match against Exeter City. The fee has been cleared by the Conference who at one stage had planned to save such monies for their dispute with Exeter.

Sky will also televise Hereford's game at Dagenham & Redbridge and the fixture has been brought forward to Friday, February 27, kick-off 7.45pm.