Bullock ruled out for four weeks

Last updated : 28 July 2005 By Simon Head

Bullock: Likely first-choice, but ruled out of action.

Bullock injured his right foot kicking the ball during the recent pre-season friendly at Millwall and club physio Simon Webster described the keeper's injury as involving "strange mechanics".

Webster explained, "Tony has sprained three joints in his mid-foot and it is very swollen."

Bullock will have to take a back seat for this weekend's final pre-season match against Barnet at Priestfield, which gives Steve Banks and Jason Brown the opportunity to stake a late claim for the starting goalkeeper's spot against Colchester on August 6th.

Up until his injury, Bullock had seen more playing time in the first team under Cooper than the other two keepers - and looked favourite to secure the starting spot for the first match of the season. But injury has meant Bullock's campaign will start later than his teammates - and it is hoped he will be fully recovered after around four weeks of rest and physiotherapy.