Banbury United could be without top scorer Jon Gardner and young midfielder Darren Pond at least until Christmas after they were both ruled out with long-term injuries.

Banbury boss Kevin Brock said it was 99 per cent certain that Gardner, who has scored ten goals since his move from Thame United in the summer, would need surgery on a deep-seated groin problem.

Pond, 18, hasn't played since suffering a serious knee ligament injury following a bad challenge during their game against Chippenham last month.

"All being well, if Jon has the operation soon and comes through the six week recuperation okay, then he could be back for Christmas," said Brock. "With Darren, it's a bit more complex. We will have to see what the specialist says."

Brock, whose side host Cirencster Town in tomorrow's FA Trophy second qualifying round, added: "It's a big blow to lose Jon because he gives us something different up front. And he's got ten goals from midfield, which is excellent.

"I feel sorry for Darren because he's just broken into the first team. He had formed a good partnership with Paul Lamb."

Banbury will be without Wayne Blossom (suspended), though midfielder Ollie Stanbridge should return after missing Tuesday's win against Evesham due to illness.

Ex-Aston Villa youngster Stuart Bridges faces a test on a hamstring injury.

Brock said Cirencester, who are managed by former Witney Town boss Brian Hughes, would prove a tough test.

"Although they are below mid-table I think they are a good side. They only just missed the play-offs last season.

"They have some good experienced players like Adie Viveash who was at Oxford (United). Brian's done a good job there."

Banbury Utd (v Cirencester Tn, away): from Tricker, Robinson, Kinch, Sullivan, Redknap, Fuller, Nicholls, Lamb, Gooderick, Baird, Potter, Bridges, McKay, Jackson, Johnson.