Clare has scored one goal in 13 appearances for the U's

Cambridge United striker Daryl Clare says he hopes to be fit again within "three to four weeks" after avoiding surgery on a finger injury.

The 32-year-old broke a finger in a training ground accident in October but hopes to make an impact on his return.

He told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire: "I'm not naive enough to think I've played anywhere near my full potential yet.

"I've got a small break now which gives me an opportunity to refocus and get a bit of fitness work under my belt."

Clare feared he could be out until Christmas if he needed surgery, and said: "It's a big relief as it was a freak injury.

"There was a 50-50 split on whether it was going to be surgery involving having metal plates inserted.

"But myself and Greg [Reid, physio] have decided to let it heal naturally and hopefully knock a bit off the time out."

After signing for Cambridge in the summer, the former Gateshead striker admitted he was disappointed not to have matched his career record of one goal for each two games.

"As a general rule if you work hard on the training ground all season your form will be good and poor at points," he said.

"But I'm pretty sure I've had my fair share of bad luck now and I'm looking forward to some luckier times and a few more goals."

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