DAN COX fears he may not even make the qualifying rounds for next week's Queen's tournament in London.

Last season, the former North Hykeham student received a wild card entry into the qualifying stages of the event, but injuries have taken their toll on his results this season and he faces an up-hill struggle to be on the starting list for qualification, writes Dave Marshall.

Cox (pictured right), who lost out in the first qualifying round at this week's 50K Nottingham Challenger event, losing 7-6, 6-3 to training and doubles partner Josh Milton, says he will not know if he is taking part until after he signs up for the prestigious event tonight.

"It will be touch and go as to whether I actually get in to be honest," he said.

"Last year, I received a wild card entry to the qualifiers, but this year, because of the injuries I have had and the lack of good results it's going to be tough.

"I am certainly not expecting a wild card and just signing in does not guarantee your inclusion.

"If I don't get in I will just have to get on with it and move on."

Cox's defeat in the first round of qualifying at Nottingham enabled him to take part in a lower-tier British Tour event at the same venue.

The 20-year-old reached the quarter-final stages and was in line to reach the final this morning.

"If I make it to the final, I would have to play in that before dashing down to London to sign up for Queen's before 9pm, so it could turn out to be a busy day," Cox added.

"It was disappointing to lose out to Josh (Milton) earlier this week, but I am glad I played how I did.

"I was winning the first set 5-2 and then lost it, before leading the second set 3-1.

"The conditions were terrible as it was so windy and because we know each other so well, it was a strange game.

"He just stuck in the rallies and didn't go for much and I think those tactics won it for him."