FAIRFIELD Villa have been forced to rule out key player Lewis Smith for the next six to eight weeks following a knee injury.

Unlucky Smith spent 18 months on the sidelines with an earlier knee injury and has only recently returned to the fray.

Villa spokesman Paul Oakes said: "It's a real blow, not only for Villa but for Lewis himself, especially after being out for so long. He's worked really hard to get back and everyone is wishing him a speedy recovery."

Busy Villa have brought back striker James Ward after signing him from close rivals Barnt Green Spartak.

Ward initially signed for Villa from rivals Droitwich Spa but Oakes said: "Things didn't work out at the time, but James is keen to come back and could forge a prolific partnership with Connor Collins."

Villa host Hampton in Midland League Two this Saturday (2pm kick-off) but will be missing Daniel Price who is suspended after picking up five bookings.