WORCESTER City boss John Barton has bolstered his options by signing Craig Dean as left-side cover.

The 26-year-old has been on trial at Dr Martens Premier Division leaders Crawley Town and was in the side that defeated City 4-0 earlier this season.

Dean, a former Manchester United trainee, who can operate at either left-back or left midfield, has signed on an initial month long deal.

He spent the summer playing in the League of Ireland and the previous summer played in America. Dean has also had spells at Atherstone United and Burton Albion and Barton will draft him straight into City's squad to face Chippenham Town on Saturday.

Midfielder John Snape, who was substituted late on in City's goalless draw at Hinckley United on Tuesday night is emerging as a doubt to face the Bluebirds.

"John picked up an ankle knock and it's almost certain that he will miss training tonight and we've got one or two other niggles," said City's assistant manager Mick Tuohy.