AFC Telford United boss Rob Smith: No way back for outcast Johnny Gorman and Greg Wilkinson

Manager Rob Smith says youth-teamers are ahead of the frozen-out duo.

Winger Gorman has returned from a month's loan spell at Colwyn Bay with a glowing endorsement from boss Kevin Lynch. Midfielder Wilkinson's switch to National Premier side FC Halifax fell through.

The duo have been banished from the club since the 2-0 defeat to Chester in the FA Trophy back in December, and they seem certain to leave at the end of the season when their contracts expire.

Smith said: "Now the window has closed, that's it.

"There's absolutely no chance they will play. We have youth-team lads who can come in if needs be.

"They haven't figured here for some time now and I don't see that situation changing.

"Johnny went to Colwyn Bay and came back and Greg hasn't really featured, so both of them will be short of match fitness anyway and we have a really tight dressing room."

Gorman and Wilkinson were banished from the club after being singled out – but not publicly named – in a broadside by Smith several months ago.

Meanwhile, striker Dave Hibbert declared there are exciting times ahead if Telford win their survival battle.

The in-form Bucks went into today's visit of runaway leaders Solihull Moors four points clear of the drop zone with five games left after a seven-match unbeaten run and five successive clean sheets. We've got a great group and if we can keep this core together I'm sure there will only be exciting times ahead," said Hibbert.

"There are only 16, 17 lads and we're so close-knit and we want to do well for this club and get us over the line so we can see the job through survival-wise.

"Then we can start again for next year."

Hibbert is one of four strikers going for three places with Connor McCarthy, Josh Wilson and John Cofie, who he replaced in the Shropshire Senior Cup against former club Shrewsbury Town on Tuesday night. But he relishes the battle for spots.

"I know it's all part and parcel of the game and you have to stick together," he said.

"John, Josh and Connor were superb on Tuesday night so there's competition for places but we all bring something different to the table.

"Whoever plays, we're going to be backing each other to do the job."