PITSEA-based sprint hurdler Gianni Frankis has been ruled out of this weekend’s European Athletics Trials in Birmingham with a hip injury.

The 22-year-old, who raced in last summer’s World Champion-ship in Berlin, picked up the problem while racing in Belgium a fortnight ago.

But he is still confident of qualifying for the forthcoming European Championships.

“It’s unfortunate because I obviously wanted to compete at the trials as it’s always a huge event, but I still have a week after them to get the time I need to go,” said Frankis.

“I’m not at 100 per cent as I’ve hurt my hip flexor and I’ve missed too much training to be able to take part.

“I haven’t been out for too long though, so hopefully I won’t have lost too much of my speed and I will be able to find a couple of races to take part in.”

Frankis’ season’s best currently stands at 13.80 seconds.

But he must run 13.62 seconds if he is stand any chance of making the squad for the Championships which take place in Barcelona, Spain, next month.

“I think I can do it and I would obviously love to be able to make the squad for Barcelona,” said Frankis. “I certainly don’t want to miss out.”

Frankis faces fierce competition for a place in the squad as both Andy Turner and Will Sharman are likely to challenge for medals in Barcelona.

Britain are able to select three sprinters for the event, but only those who make the qualifying standard are allowed to travel.

“I know I don’t have long to do it, but I’m certainly capable of running 13.62 seconds,” said Frankis. “I did it last year, but now I need to go and do it again and very soon as well.”