JON Holloway has handed Worcester City a huge lift ahead of tomorrow's home clash with Dover Athletic by agreeing a two-year contract extension.

The influential Holloway has been an integral part of City's successful season and despite interest from several clubs has pledged his future to the St George's Lane club.

Manager John Barton had also hoped to boost his midfield options by signing Mitch Counsell from Bishop's Cleeve who play in the Cherry Red Records Hellenic Premier Division.

The 20-year-old trained with City last night but the two clubs have still to agree the terms of his move.

Barton paid tribute to Holloway who has demonstrated his football ability by starring in several positions this year -- at right-back, centre-half and in midfield.

"We've had a number of key performers that have done consistently well for us and Jon is up there with the best of them," he said. "Last season he didn't quite live up to his expectations but he promised a big season and he has delivered.

"We moved quickly to sign him because a number of clubs were sniffing around including one from the Conference but hopefully he can achieve that with us.

"Mitch trained with us and is worth having a further look at."

There was further positive news for Barton's injury-hit squad last night with Stewart Hadley and Marc Burrow training with the first team for the first time in several months.

City's boss is expected to field an unchanged starting line up against Clive Walker's Dover side tomorrow, although Pat Lyons and Adam Webster will have late fitness tests.

Sixth-placed Athletic, who were relegated from the Conference last season, have games in hand on Worcester and Barton thinks they will be a serious threat.

"I have not heard too many people mention Dover but you do that at your peril," he added.

"They have been up there all season without hitting the top couple of spots but have picked up wins and accumulated points here and there.

"Dover are a tough side and we are going to have to be at our best to make sure we get a result."