Wycombe Wanderers manager Gareth Ainsworth believes that the Blues enforced League Two break could benefit Paul Hayes after an injury scare.

Hayes, who has been back in action for two weeks after recovering from an Achilles injury, limped off with 10 minutes remaining in the 2-0 win against Mansfield on Saturday.

Wanderers’ match with Notts County on Saturday 14 November has been postponed after the Magpies had three players called up for international duty and Ainsworth feels Hayes could benefit.

“We have got this three week break from league action now that could come at the perfect time for Paul Hayes,” he explained.

“If he doesn’t play in the FA Cup he doesn’t play. He will want to play but he is getting on a bit. I know where he is in his 30s now, I’ve been there myself, and you do need extra days off to recover.

“Like I always say he is my captain, he is my leader and he epitomises what we are on the pitch so no one can give less than 100% when your skipper is running around like that.”

The 32-year-old has added a much needed injection of quality to the Wycombe attack since his return which owed much to the work of the Wycombe Wanderers Trust.

He scored a late equaliser against Carlisle United to end the Blues losing run on 24 October and is one of the club's main attacking assets.

While he didn’t score on Saturday he was involved in the build up to the first goal and his partnership with Garry Thompson again looked threatening.

One moment in particular spoke volumes for Hayes’ quality as he played a delightful through ball into Thompson who was unfortunate to see his dinked effort cleared off the line.

Ainsworth spoke glowingly of his captain’s contribution in the wake of the win and will be hoping he will not be side-lined for too long after this latest injury worry.

He said: “Paul Hayes is a big player for us. He opens doors which are closed to most players. He finds that special ball and puts people in like he did with Thommo who was unlucky not to score.”

Should Hayes, who was holding his hamstring as he left the field, miss Sunday’s FA Cup game he will have had a three week break between fixtures that may prove vital in maintaining his fitness.