By Martin Morgan

Last updated 12:32, Thursday, 17 July 2008

Workington Reds’ new signing Kevin Gray is out of contention for the weekend’s pre-season Annan tournament after injuring his knee in Tuesday night’s 3-0 success over Whitehaven Amateurs.

New Reds' signing Kevin Gray

Now the ex-Carlisle United’ skipper’s priority is to be fit for the big Blue Square North kick off in three weeks’ time.

Gray, who hurt his knee just five minutes in to the match when competing for a corner, will not be aware of the extent of the damage until the swelling subsides.

“All I can do is ice it to get a bit of the swelling down and take it from there,” said Gray, fondly remembered in Carlisle for his role in back-to-back promotions under Paul Simpson.

“I went up for a challenge from a corner and the knee gave way when I landed.

“I just have to hope for the best and hope it’s not too serious. I’ve been enjoying it at the club and then this happens.

“It’s not such good news for me. But hopefully I’ll be fit and in contention for the start of the season.”

Gray rejected a return to his first club Mansfield to join Darren Edmondson’s squad following his release from Chesterfield. And he has not regretted his switch to Reds, who are keen to improve on last season’s 14-place finish.

“I knew Darren from my playing days at Huddersfield and knew he worked hard at what he did,” the 36-year-old defender continued.

“He’s been spot-on and seems to know what he’s talking about. It would be nice to think things could improve for them from last season.”

Reds face Annan on Saturday on the first day of Athletic’s four-team tournament.