VETERAN Worcester City full-back Paul Carty is to have routine surgery on a cartilage injury.

The veteran sustained the injury against Stafford Rangers in April but a recent scan has revealed no major damage.

The 37-year-old is due to see a specialist today and expects to be given the all-clear for an operation.

"I've had a scan to make sure there is no other damage to the knee and hopefully the specialist will give the OK for routine surgery on a tear in the medial miniscus," said Carty.

The left back is aiming to be fit for the opening match of the season but will not risk his knee unless fully fit.

"I've had talks with John Barton and unless I'm 100 per cent fit then I probably won't start the season," he added.

Meanwhile, Stourport Swifts manager Dave Titterton has slapped star striker Richard Ball on the transfer list.

Last season's 22-goal ace is chasing more money according to Titterton.

Ball is available for a four figure fee with Gresley, Sutton Coldfield and Bedworth among those interested.

"We agreed a deal with Richard last Thursday but since then he thinks there is more money out there available for him," said Titterton.

"We're not prepared to give it to him so if he wants to stop then it will be under our financial platform."

Meanwhile Swifts' defender Steve Ulfig has signed for Bromsgrove Rovers.

"Steve's a good solid player who did well for me during the season but I don't think he's worth the money he's asking for at this level," said Titterton.

"We still have new signing Andy Jones, Dave Davies, Jay Powell and Craig Webb who can all play centre-half, while we are trying to retain left-back Bryan Small who has been moving house recently.

"Chris Childs has also signed and there will be six or seven new faces. There's plenty of players out there willing to play."