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Ashford United manager Tommy Warrilow blessed with midfield options going into top-of-the-table match at Ramsgate

Boss Tommy Warrilow has some big decisions to make as Ashford prepare for a top-of-the-table game at Ramsgate.

The Nuts & Bolts moved a point behind Isthmian South East leaders Rams after goals from Omarr Lawson, Lanre Azeez, Gary Lockyer and Henry Muggeridge in a 4-0 win over Haywards Heath.

Ashford United striker Gary Lockyer at the heart of the action. Picture: Ian Scammell
Ashford United striker Gary Lockyer at the heart of the action. Picture: Ian Scammell

That sets them up nicely for Saturday’s game at Southwood (3pm), where victory would send them top.

Muggeridge’s return, after weeks out with a broken bone in his foot, was a big boost to Ashford’s midfield last weekend.

It’s an area that’s looking particularly strong, with Mikey Dalton available after three weeks in Australia and Toby Ajala back at the club after re-signing from Bowers & Pitsea.

Jarred Trespaderne dropped to the bench against Haywards Heath and there was no room in the squad for Rob Saunders.

Ashford United manager Tommy Warrilow. Picture: Ian Scammell
Ashford United manager Tommy Warrilow. Picture: Ian Scammell
Lanre Azeez celebrates his goal as Ashford take a 2-0 lead. Picture: Ian Scammell
Lanre Azeez celebrates his goal as Ashford take a 2-0 lead. Picture: Ian Scammell

Warrilow cancelled Tuesday’s training session to give various knocks and niggles in the squad a rest but Ashford were back in last night to finalise plans for Ramsgate.

“When everyone’s fit our midfield is looking ridiculously strong,” said Warrilow.

“We’ve not been able to get that consistency in there but we’ve got people coming back now.

“Henry made a big difference on Saturday, although that’s no disrespect to any of the other midfielders because everyone’s played their part in getting us where we are in the table.

“We’ve got Toby Ajala back, because we know what he can do, but he’s coming into a very competitive area.

Mamadou Diallo in possession for Ashford. Picture: Ian Scammell
Mamadou Diallo in possession for Ashford. Picture: Ian Scammell
Gary Lockyer celebrates after scoring the Nuts & Bolts' third against Haywards Heath. Picture: Ian Scammell
Gary Lockyer celebrates after scoring the Nuts & Bolts' third against Haywards Heath. Picture: Ian Scammell

“Dalts is back from Australia and he’s someone who was doing well for us before he went away, so it’s going to be interesting. I couldn’t even get Rob Saunders in the squad last weekend.

“He’s not played a lot of football, where he’s had this recurring ankle injury, but he’s done well for us and is a good utility man.

“There’s some big decisions to make, and we’ve still Rhyle Ovenden to come back, who I haven’t forgotten about.

“I know I can’t keep them all happy. You just have to be honest with everybody.

“We’re looking strong in midfield and at the back, it’s just up front where we need to strengthen.

Henry Muggeridge makes it 4-0 on his return from injury. Picture: Ian Scammell
Henry Muggeridge makes it 4-0 on his return from injury. Picture: Ian Scammell

“Omari Hibbert’s gone back to Dulwich, so it’s an area we’re looking at. I lost out on a couple last week.”

Ramsgate boss Steve Lovell has played down the significance of this weekend’s match and Warrilow agrees.

It’s a big game but no bigger than any other.

“I treat every team in this league with the same respect, whether they’re top or bottom,” said Warrilow.

“Loves is right, it’s another game. We need to go there, make sure our house is in order and build on what we did against Haywards Heath.

Toby Ajala makes his second Ashford debut after joining from Bowers & Pitsea. Picture: Ian Scammell
Toby Ajala makes his second Ashford debut after joining from Bowers & Pitsea. Picture: Ian Scammell

“I don’t want to go over the top but it was a good performance, with four goals and a clean sheet.”

Warrilow, meanwhile, has wished Ashford Ladies well as they meet Actonians in the Women’s FA Cup Second Round at Homelands on Sunday (1pm).

“Steve (Howard, manager) has done a really good job - he’s caused me untold grief because they’ve been so successful!” joked Warrilow.

“The ladies have done brilliantly and this is a massive game.

“They’re flying the flag for the club. Let’s try and get as many people up there as we can to cheer them on.”

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