DANNY McDonnell has only just signed a two-year contract extension but you sense he would love to see out his playing days at St George's Lane.

The 30-year-old keeper has been inspired by veterans Paul Carty, Carl Heeley and John Snape, all still playing in their mid-30s, and craves a chance to emulate his team-mates and prolong his career.

And with McDonnell just entering his prime years, the odds favour him keeping guard between City's posts for many years yet.

McDonnell's continued excellence has been vital to City's fortunes and he has the happy knack of making saves at crucial points of the game.

"Danny's kept us in games at vital times no more so than against Nuneaton when Gez Murphy was clean through at 0-0," said Barton.

"With everything that has been going on that more than ever was a vital save."

McDonnell is passionate about the club and harbours ambitions of bringing success to Worcester.

He was more than happy to pen a new deal and admitted he didn't have to think twice about the decision. "I was delighted when John offered me the extension especially in this day and age when there are hundreds of professional footballers out of work," he said.

"I'm lucky to be at Worcester and the longer I'm here the better. I still want to see us progress desperately which is why I've decided to sign the extension.

"It was an easy decision to make and as soon as John offered me it, I was happy to accept.

"I will be 33 when this contract runs out but I look at people like Paul Carty, Carl Heeley and John Snape and touch wood, if I'm lucky and stay clear of injury, I can go on as long as they can," he added.

While McDonnell's exploits have earned him a new contract, the form of young midfielder Liam McDonald could also reap similar dividends.

McDonnell for one, has been hugely impressed.

"Liam has done very well," he added. "I don't want to heap too much praise on him because he's only a young lad and you can't expect him to perform to that standard every time but he's really coming on in every game that passes."

McDonald's debut senior goal hauled City back into the contest against Welling United on Saturday and with Jai Stanley on the verge of full fitness, Barton has an interesting selection poser.

But after a turbulent few weeks that's one headache he will welcome!