King hoping for long haul in FA Cup

Hendon, from the Ryman League North, have tallied just two points from nine league games this season and manager Gary McCann said he 'didn't think he had ever felt so low' after Monday's 4-2 home defeat by Ramsgate.

Rook's manager Steve King watched the match and described it as 'just a crazy game.' He went on: 'Hendon are a young side who work hard and we will have to match them or else. They've got some quality.

'I'd love to do well in the FA Cup this season, it's one of the things I haven't achieved at this club.'

King transfer-listed new striker Paul Booth earlier this month after some poor performances and the action had an immediate effect with last season's top Conference South goalscorer netting three times in the last two games against Newport and Sutton United. King said: 'I've sat down and had a heart to heart with Paul and he says he wants to be at the club and wants to stay. I thought listing him was the appropriate action at the time but he's got on with it and shown what it's about. Long may it continue.'

King has signed 18-year-old winger Joe Ledgister on a month's loan from Southend. 'He's very quick and will be involved on Saturday,' said King.

Jean-Michel Sigere came on as a late substitute in the 2-0 win at Sutton United last weekend and should be okay for the Cup trip.

King said: 'The problem with Siggy is that he suffers from swelling of the knee and when he plays a full game he can't train during the week. That affects his match fitness.'

Definitely missing on Saturday is Lee Farrell, who has twisted an ankle in training.