EASTLEIGH will have a pitch inspection tomorrow (Thursday) ahead of Saturday's big FA Cup fourth qualifying round tie at home to Hereford.

Following the controversial, late postponement of their Vanarama National League game against Chester on September 30, the Spitfires have had extensive repair work carried out by the VNL’s approved contractors on the problematic corner of their Silverlake Stadium playing surface.

And while they are confident that the pitch will be playable for Saturday, the FA have requested an early inspection to avoid any repeat of what happened with Chester.

An EFC statement confirmed: “The club has sought the help of both the National League and The FA with regards to the pitch.

“As a result, the National League’s approved contractors were appointed last week and are currently carrying out extensive repair work on the south-western corner of the pitch.

“These should be completed by Wednesday 11th October and, at this stage, every indication is that the pitch will be playable.

“The FA have requested a pitch inspection for Thursday, and in the unlikely event of the playing surface being deemed unfit for play, a contingency plan is being put in place.

“The club will provide updates on both social media and the club website as and when they are available.”

Hereford have so far sold more than 500 tickets for the match.