Recent signing Mitch Hancox has given Altrincham's play-off prospects a boost by declaring himself ready to step into the breach and solve a potential crisis in midfield on a weekend that could prove historic for the high-flying Robins.
Three points at lowly Ebbsfleet United tomorrow will make a first-ever Vanarama National League play-off place a near-certainty for Phil Parkinson's in-form side, but their hopes have been hit by injury and suspension.
Already without key midfielder Isaac Marriott until the start of next season due to ankle surgery, Alty's engine room was left looking threadbare when his replacement George Wilson picked up a three-match ban after being sent off at Dorking Wanderers last Saturday.
That turned the spotlight on to Hancox, who has impressed as substitute in recent weeks after signing from York City and is earmarked for promotion to the starting line-up alongside Elliot Osborne at Ebbsfleet.
It promises to be a testing first full appearance for the 30-year old, but, after gaining European and Championship experience in his early days at Birmingham City, he insists he's ready for the challenge.
"When I signed, Alty had just beaten York 6-1, so I didn't envisage walking straight into the side," he said. "I've been waiting patiently for an opportunity, and if it comes on Saturday, then happy days - I will make sure I grab it with both hands, because I want to stay in the team and do all I can to help us achieve our goal.
"The moment I walked through the door here, I resolved to work hard and make the most of any chance that came my way. Every time I step on the pitch, I have the same mentality - this could be your last game, so give it all you've got. If my quality isn't there, so be it, but I will always be running round, getting tackles in, because that is the biggest strength of my game.
"The final two games are all about trying to get six points because we want to finish as high as we can. If we're in the play-offs, I'd back us against whoever we come up against - we've got a really good chance.
"The lads have been brilliant with me, and I feel I have settled in well. There's a really good vibe about the place, and it's great to be part of a team doing so well and aiming to get promoted. It's a young squad but a hungry one. Everyone wants the same thing, and if we all keep working hard, there's every chance we'll succeed."
