Banbury United boss Billy Jeffrey is optimistic teenage striker Nabil Sharif will shake off a shoulder injury in time for Saturday's second-qualifying round trip to Ryman League high-fliers Billericay.

Initially it was thought the 18-year-old, who this week had his loan spell from Blue Square Premier Bet side Rushden extended for another month, dislocated the shoulder during Tuesday’s 3-2 win at Abingdon United in the Red Insure Cup.

However, the news is not as bad as first feared for Sharif who has netted six goals for Jeffrey’s side.

“Nabil got a bad challenge and has landed awkwardly – he was taken right out and the referee didn’t even book their player,” said Jeffrey.

“We thought it was dislocated, but fingers-crossed, he should be okay.”

He added: “It’s a big boost Nabil is with us for another month – he has done very well.

“He’s got pace and strength and can play at a higher level.”

Meanwhile, Jeffrey admitted Banbury would have to be at the top of their game to beat Billericay, who occupy fifth place in the Premier Division.

Banbury will be without Jason Taylor (suspended) and Aynsley McDonald (cup-tied).

Billericay boast former Watford striker Micah Hyde, who could play if he recovers from a leg injury that saw him miss Wednesday’s win against Cray Wanderers.

Jeffrey said: “It’s going to be difficult and we are certainly the underdogs.

“But there is no reason, if we play as I know we can, that we can’t cause an upset.

“We needed that result against Abingdon – it got our poor display against Oxford City (they lost 2-0 at home) out of the system.

“The league is our bread and butter, but the Trophy is the next one down.

“We’ll never win the FA Cup, but with the Trophy you can get through a few rounds with a bit of luck.”

Banbury Utd (v Billericay, away): from Murrell, Stanbridge, Cray, Gordon, Learoyd, Oulton, Staff, Benjamin, Sharif, Martin, Cross, Power, Mbmarah, Naylor, Foster.