Epsom Downs will be hoping for a strong start to their campaign in 2008, as they are expecting key players back from injury and suspension.

Darren Chalke is back in the squad after a ban recieved in October, this a boost to the centre back position.

In the same position , Player / Manager James Baker has played 90 minutes for the reserves and 60 minutes for The Downs against Richmond & Hook and seems to be recovering slowly but surely from his knee injury.

Mark Bickell had a strange injury with a torn abdomen muscle. The injury came during Epsoms away loss to Hillcroft in November and has kept the midfielder out for 8 weeks. Bickell has his sights set on a return to action against Fernside this coming weekend.

Perry Gray and missed the Richmond & Hook game through illness but is back in contention for Fernside as well.

Robert Moggridge also missed the game against Richmond with a hamstring injury, he looks set to return, bolstering the defence further and expanding the counter attacking options.

On the down side, Skipper Jason Ellis has a twisted knee obtained during his game for 5 a side outlet Selhurst Bridge on Thursday. Last weekends Sunday rest has been a blessing for the midfielder, who also hopes to return for the Fernside game.