THE return of influential striker Alex Taffe after 12 weeks out is a timely boost for struggling Malvern Town, according to manager Chris Palmer.

The hit-man has missed the last three months after breaking his hand earlier in the season but is now in contention for a starting place when Town travel to Westfields in Aspire Midlands Alliance on Monday, December 28 (ko 3pm).

Weather permitting, Town will also go against former manager Joe Rawle, who is now assistant at the Herefordshire club.

Town’s home league clash with Friar Lane and Epworth was postponed due to a frozen pitch on Saturday and it is hoped the extra time for the re-arranged fixture, originally due to be played on Boxing Day, will make it more likely to go ahead.

Only Craig Carter will be missing from the Westfields game as he serves a one-week suspension which also keeps him out of the home clash with Highgate United on Saturday, January 2.

Palmer welcomes back striker Mason Mansfield and defenders Ashley Pardoe and Ryan Clarke from Worcestershire duty in the FA County Youth Challenge Cup.

Striker Bryan Craven, Paul Edwards, Craig Williams, defender Paul Ireland and goalkeeper Lewis Skyers all return for the derby. Palmer said: “It’s a huge boost to have Alex back, he has scored a few for us this season.

“I’m still hoping to bring in one or two more players over the next couple of weeks.

“Survival is still the aim this season.

“We’ve got to take points from the next two games. I’m targeting at least one win from these two.

“There are four or five teams above us within six points so they are still within our sights.”

Speaking on the postponement of Town’s clash, Palmer added: “It was a good result for us without kicking a ball.

“All of the players that were missing on Saturday are back now.

“We’ve got nothing to lose when we go to Westfields.”