United manager Nigel Adkins has explained the absence of midfielder Sam Togwell from his starting line-up for Tuesday night's 3-0 home win over Hereford.

Matt Sparrow deputised for the ball-winner, who has been suffering from a niggling injury for some time - something the boss has kept quiet.

Speaking on Iron World, he said: "Sam was a little bit uncomfortable in his lower abdomen area. He's had this problem, on and off, for the last six to eight weeks.

"I made a judgement call, like I did with Martyn Woolford who had a groin injury, that a little rest would do him the world of good because he's vitally important to us.

"I've got Matt Sparrow, Ian Morris and Liam Trotter all desperate to get into that position so I can utilise my squad.

"Missing this one game could maybe mean Sam is in better condition for future games. We need him strong because he puts a heck of a shift in for us."

He also revealed news of a fresh injury blow for winger Garry Thompson.

Adkins continued: "Unfortunately we lost Garry Thompson to a similar sort of injury. He tried to come back on Friday and looked great in training but he got injured and doubled over in pain. He was in a hell of a lot of pain and has had a scan.

"He's going to need an operation now so we're hoping he'll be back and available for the final two games of the season, but the play-off games are what we're focusing on."

Hear much more from Nigel Adkins, Grant McCann and Kevan Hurst on Iron World.

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