WHITES midfielder Tom Whelan has been ruled out of the playoff semi-final against Evesham United.

The former Poole Town player made his 100th appearance for the Whites against Mangotsfield United, is believed to have suffered a blood clot in his calf.

Steve Claridge will now have a decision to make with regards to cover for the central position with Chris Onoufriou, Sam Roberts and recent signing Franklyn Clarke providing options for the manager.

Whelan spoke to the club website and said: “It's gutting to know that I won't be able to take play in the play-offs, especially after playing practically every league game this season.

“It's hard for me to take but I think the players we've got at the club are more than capable of stepping in and doing the job.”

Claridge told JournalSport that there also maybe others who will miss out, but without mentioning who they were he said: “A week ago we had a fully fit squad and then you play one game and we lose three players.

“It also looks like we a probably going to lose another two for these play offs.

“It is disappointing but its something that we’ve had to put up with all season, so we will just have to keep going.”

The Whites face Evesham tomorrow night at the Ray Mac, and we will have to wait until then to see who makes the starting eleven and who misses out.