GREAT Harwood Town boss Denis Underwood has warned his players that it might get worse before it gets better.

However, he is confident that he can guide his side away from the foot of NWCL Division One -- even if it does take some time.

Third from bottom Town, without a league win in 11 games, have a tough Christmas programme starting with the visit of Kidsgrove tomorrow and second-placed Prescott Cables on Monday.

They also have to play Skelmesdale and Clitheroe over the festive period.

And while Town may have to suffer a few more defeats along the way, Underwood is determined to get it right.

He said: "The players' confidence does take a bit of a knock when you keep on losing and we do have a few tough matches over the next few weeks.

"I'm just hoping we can pick up a few points along the way against some of the top teams. The main thing is that we don't drop any against teams that are around us.

He added: "We do have a few games in hand against our rivals and I am sure we can start to climb the table."

Underwood has been boosted by the return of Andy Clarkson while Jamie Smith is in the squad for the first time this season.

Paul Whalley is back in contention after being out since the third game of the season but Neil Baron (suspended) and James Coonan (holiday) are both missing.