King's Lynn boss Keith Webb revealed yesterday that former Canaries midfielder Shaun Carey is firmly back in his first team plans.

King's Lynn boss Keith Webb revealed yesterday that former Canaries midfielder Shaun Carey is firmly back in his first team plans.

The popular Carey impressed on his first competitive start since suffering a double leg break injury 14 months ago in Lynn's midweek FA Trophy replay win at Billericay.

And he is now in Webb's thoughts for Corby's Southern Premier League visit next Tuesday - the midfielder's season-ending injury coming against the Steelmen in last year's corresponding fixture.

Webb's injury-hit squad enjoy a rare weekend off with scheduled league opponents Team Bath on FA Cup duty.

"Shaun has got himself in a situation where he is certainly ready for selection," said Webb.

"It's been a long while coming and when a player is out for that length of time it takes a while because you pick up a few niggles here and there along the way.

"I know he's been frustrated because he loves to play football and he wants to be involved, but he played really well the other night and he gives us that experience."

Lynn triumphed in Essex without six first team regulars available but Webb was delighted with his re-shaped side - Jack Defty foraging in a lone striking role ahead of a reinforced five-man midfield.

"That formation has certainly given me food for thought," said Webb.

"We took a little bit of time to adjust although I felt their opening goal was against the run of play but, for me, one up front worked.

"It helped us to get the ball down, pass it and allowed our best players to get on the ball - the likes of Shaun and Phil Mulryne.

"When you play 4-4-2 we've got two very offensive wide players who are not going to get up and down - that isn't a natural part of their game.

"But with an extra player in there I felt Phil was able to prosper. We showed a lot of character and determination and the boys got what they deserved. That should give us the belief to push on."

Webb insists a third qualifying round home tie against Conference South leaders Eastbourne Borough is on the backburner.

"I'm not really looking that far ahead," he said.

"The next hurdle for me is Corby and that is what I will concentrate on because it's important we pick up three points. Hopefully all the injured lads should be back - bar Steve Melton who has been given the nod to push on - so myself and Lee Glover have a lot of decisions to make."

Lynn also face an errea third round league cup tie against Hitchin at The Walks four days before Eastbourne's visit. Webb is again set to experiment after blooding Lynn's youngsters in last season's competition.

"The likes of Rob Murray and one or two others will need a game," he said.

"I'll look at the reserves' fixture list and see where we are. We also have to go down to Cirencester on the Saturday before which is another factor."

Webb confirmed one or two of his first team fringe players will appear for the reserves in tomorrow's Ridgeons Premier home game against Leiston.