MARK Collier says Chippenham Town’s striker hunt is very much alive and kicking, with the Bluebirds awaiting the outcome of seven-day approaches for three different players.

With experienced frontmen Alan Griffin and Lee Phillips currently sidelined with long-term injuries and Omar Simpson also nursing a dislocated shoulder, midfielders Luke Ballinger, Jordan Roberts and James Guthrie have all featured up front in recent weeks.

Moves for Frome Town’s former Swindon Town striker Mark Francis and ex-Bristol Rovers man Lewis Haldane have failed to pay dividends but Hardenhuish Park boss Collier says that Chippenham are soldiering on in their search for attacking reinforcements.

“We’ve probably been looking for another striker for the last six-to-eight weeks. We’ve got three seven-day’s in at the moment but their clubs haven’t waived them, so we’ll have to wait until next Monday before we can start speaking to them,” said the Bluebirds’ chief.

“As soon as players start scoring goals, clubs start taking a look at them and we’re no different. We’re still looking to bring in that number nine.

“Phillips is set to go in for his keyhole surgery on the 23rd and Griffin had his second scan on Sunday and is awaiting the results of that.”

Forward Darren Edwards is cup-tied for this Saturday’s FA Cup clash with Hemel Hempstead Town whilst Simpson will be assessed, along with midfielder Iain Harvey.

Youngster Matt Jones, son of Town assistant manager Tom, has also returned to Swindon Town following the expiration of his loan deal.

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