King's Lynn boss Keith Webb is happy Francis is not badly hurt (BBC)

King's Lynn winger Joe Francis is expected to be fit for their Conference North opener at Burscough.

The Linnets top scorer from last season needed an X-ray on a side injury after a collision during a pre-season game.

The 21-year-old has suffered no more than soft tissue damage and should make the club's first ever match at Conference level.

Manager Keith Webb told BBC Radio Norfolk: "I did have my doubts he would be fit but there's no breakage."

Francis's 23 goals helped King's Lynn win the Southern League title last season and secure promotion to Conference North.

He has got the ability to cause any full-back in the league problems King's Lynn manager Keith Webb

He suffered the injury after colliding with goalkeeper Stuart Nelson during a 2-2 draw with a Norwich City XI in a challenge for a high ball.

The winger is doubtful for the Southern League Shield tie against Hillingdon Borough on Saturday but Webb is confident he will make the trip to Burscough a week later.

Keith Webb admitted his relief that Francis's injury is not as serious as he first feared.

"Joe is an integral part of how we play and he has got the ability to cause any full-back in the league problems.

"But we do have a squad and I'm confident the players I've put together would be able to cope with Joe's absence on a short-term basis." Webb said.