STRIKER Michael Rankine is champing at the bit to get back on the goals trail for Hereford United.

The 28-year-old, who has scored twice for the Bulls this term, has seen his season blighted by injury since joining the club in the summer from Aldershot.

A hamstring problem has restricted him to just three substitute appearances since August 24, the last coming in the 1-1 draw at Halifax two weeks ago.

He is again set to be ruled out of today’s match at Skrill Premier leaders Cambridge United (3pm).

Rankine admits it is frustrating and wants to get back in the team to add to his tally for Martin Foyle’s side.

“I had a big injury when I ruptured my ankle but, apart from that, I’ve never really had any injuries so this is all very frustrating for me,” he said.

“I probably pushed it a bit too early at Halifax and aggravated it again. But, after the next couple of weeks, I hope I shall come back fine.

“Fingers crossed, when I’m fit, I can bring something to the team and take us up the table.”

The former York player, whose two goals for Hereford came against Hyde and Welling, added: “I’m still the joint-top goal-scorer and I need to start adding more goals to my game.

“I’ve got two so far from four starts so, if I can get more, than that would be brilliant for me and the club as well.”