INJURIES will determine the level of impact Paul Warhurst has in his second spell at the Reebok.

If the 33-year-old can prove his fitness and avoid the problems that have dogged him so often during his career, he will provide high-quality cover for the Wanderers' midfield.

But he is unlikley to be considered a serious challenger for a regular first team slot. Sam Allardyce made that abundantly clear last season when he installed Ivan Campo in the holding midfield role at the expense of Warhurst, who was eventually loaned out to Stoke City then released, surplus to requirements.

"Paul's always had the talent but it's always been the injury problems that have caused concern," the manager said after re-signing Warhurst on a short-term contract this week.

"If he avoids them he'll be a crucial member for us if we get any long term injuries in midfield."

Allardyce admits he was shocked to hear that Warhurst was still without a club but believes the Nationwide League's loss could be Wanderers' gain.

"I was staggered to think nobody in the First Division wanted to take him," he added. "He's been part of the four years of success we've had at the club since I came.

"When he rang us up and asked if we could help him, I said 'yes, come back if you want! Give it a go.'"

Like Allardyce, Warhurst is hoping his short-term agreement could become a more permanent arrangement.

"I'm not taking anything for granted," he wrote on his personal website, "but so far I feel good and I'm hopeful of making my stay here a permanent one."