Oxford City's club captain, Matty Hayward, could be just a month away from ending his two-year injury nightmare, writes Nick Farrant.

Hayward, 29, who has been out of the game for two years after suffering cruciate ligament damage to both knees, will turn out for City Reserves at Clanfield Reserves in the Oxon Intermediate Cup.

Back in 2000, Hayward, who was signed from Aylesbury United, was laid up for months after suffering the initial knee injury.

But two games into his comeback at the start of last season, the centre back suffered another blow when the same thing happened to his other knee.

Manager Paul Lee said: "I have nothing but admiration for Matty. Since he was injured, he has come to every game and attended every training session.

"He's a true professional and it's a massive boost for the club to have him back."

Meanwhile, Nando Perna and Ben Cogger are back in the squad for their Ryman League Division 1 North trip to Essex side Great Wakering Rovers. Thame United boss Andy Sinnott has backed his side to end their miserable form as they visit fellow strugglers Hertford Town in Ryman Division 1 North.

Despite a run of four defeats in five games, Sinnott said: "It's quite buoyant here and we will travel to Hertford full of confidence."

Thame's only doubt is defender Mark Avery, who has a knee injury.

Defender Dave Tregurtha returns for Abingdon Town as they visit fourth-placed Leighton Town in Ryman Division 2.

Boss Alan Thorne said: "We've just got to keep winning. If we are third or fourth at Christmas we will have a good chance of promotion."

Banbury United boss Kevin Brock may have something to prove when he takes his side to Histon in Dr Martens League Eastern Division.

The Cambridgeshire side's boss, Steve Fallon, won the manager of the month award after his side won three and lost their other game in September.

Curiously, Brock's side were unbeaten in the league in the same period, winning three of their four games.

But Brock said: "I'm not bothered, you normally get the sack after winning one of those things!"

Keiron Sullivan is Banbury's only doubt with a hamstring injury. Steve Jenkins has gone on loan to Didcot Town.