Justin Harris is a major doubt for Lewes ahead of Sunday's FA Cup first round clash with Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium.

Harris, a roofer, has suffered a bad cut to a hand at work and may require an operation.

The 25-year-old midfield hardman is seen as one of the key players in the Lewes line-up and his absence would be a major blow to the Rooks.

Manager Jimmy Quinn, whose side entertain Great Wakering Rovers in Ryman League division two tonight, said: "He is definitely out tonight and doubtful for Saturday.

"He cut it on a slate and may need an operation.

"It is a disaster for us. He has been one of our best players this year and was man-of-the-match on Saturday."

Quinn is resisting the temptation to play a makeshift side tonight in a bid to rest players ahead of the Stoke game.

Goalkeeper Ross Standen will be rested, which gives former Redhill keeper Mike Lidbury a chance in goal, but Quinn will otherwise pick his strongest available line-up.

Paul Stokes and Andy Johnson are both suspended for one game while Paul Thomsett (twisted knee) and captain Marc Cable (rib injury) are doubtful starters.

Thomsett has made a remarkable recovery from the injury he suffered ten days ago against East Thurrock.

Quinn said: "It is an incredible recovery. He trained on Saturday and is hoping to play tonight."

Stokes will be fit for Sunday after a hamstring problem but Reece Head will not recover in time from a similar injury and Quinn has confirmed Standen will be the only goalkeeper in the travelling party, which means St Leonards stopper Graham Bannatyne, who is dual-registered, will not figure.

Lewes have filled six coaches for Sunday's game and many more people are travelling by car.

There is also a coach running from the Golden Cross pub in Hove.

For more details contact 01273 413372.