JON Holloway is expected to shrug off the pain of a broken nose to take his place at the heart of Worcester City's defence at newly-promoted Merthyr Tydfil tonight (7.45).

The defender sustained the injury in a clash of heads during the dying minutes of Saturday's 1-1 draw with Havant & Waterlooville.

Adam Wilde could also make a return for City's first away trip of the Dr Martens campaign after reporting an improvement in the ankle he injured in a freak accident hanging out the washing.

City manger John Barton is pinning his hopes on Wilde recovering to restore some balance and flair to his side following Saturday's 1-1 draw.

David Holmes, who scored a hat-trick in the reserves 4-2 win at Barwell, could join the squad.

David Foy (groin) and Kevin Halliday (knee) are awaiting the results of scans while, Pat Lyons, Paul Carty (honeymoon) and Carl Heeley (suspended) are still missing.

Meanwhile, City's youth team is in Midland Floodlit League action tonight at home to Stourport Swifts (7.30).