ATTACKING midfielder Aleksejs Volosanovs is the first player to be shown the door by Worcester City's player-boss Andy Preece.

Former Latvian international Volosanovs, who made two starts and one substitute appearance during a four-week stint at the club, has now linked up with Stourport Swifts.

Preece admits he was struggling to accommodate the 27-capped playmaker into his plans for the side, while Volosanovs' release trims the wage bill and aids the manager in his efforts to bring in new signings.

He said: "We've looked at the wage bill situation and we have got to make sure things are kept tight. We are looking to bring in one or two players and we have to make some tough decisions.

"With the system we play, we were struggling to find a position for Alex. Looking at what we've got in the squad, I could not see where Alex could fit into the system. That's the main reason.

"There's no doubt that he had some ability and I'm sure he will do well elsewhere. But I just could not find a place for him and, obviously, I've got to keep a tight reign on the finances."

Preece has confirmed that teenage goalkeeper James Coates will step in to replace suspended Danny McDonnell for tomorrow's crunch clash with Vauxhall Motors at St George's Lane (3pm).

The 19-year-old made seven appearances for Worcester earlier in the campaign and was never on the losing side.

Defenders Les Hines (calf) and Shabir Khan (groin) are both improving from their injuries and could make a surprise return for City against the Motormen.