WELLINGTON will be without outstanding centre-back Tom Ellis for Saturday’s first round proper clash against Wessex League side Downton in the FA Vase at the Playing Field (3.00).

“Obviously it’s a blow because he’s my skipper,” said Wellington boss Clive Jones.

“He’s on holiday but I can’t make any comment because I’ve just come back from holiday myself.

“But this provides someone else with the chance to show what they can do.

“I would like to think we could have a good run in this competition. I don’t know too much against Downton, only that they play in the Wessex League.

“But at the moment I’m more worried about the performance of my own team. 

“Ian (Nott) kept me informed about our last game with 37 texts while I was away.”

Jones says he may soon start to “shuffle the pack.” He added: “I am looking at three or four players within the club who have not had enough starting time.

“I don’t think I will be doing this for the Downton game. It will be subtle changes.”

For the full story see this week’s Wellington Weekly News.