WORCESTER City midfielder John Deakin is poised to seal a permanent move to Evesham United.

The former Kidderminster Harriers player has almost completed a second month on loan at Common Road with the Dr Martens League Western Division high-flyers, having only played one match for City this season.

City have agreed he can move on without a transfer fee even though he is midway through a three-year contract.

Manager John Barton said: "We have agreed the transfer in principle, and hopefully the documentation for that should be completed after their Trophy game this weekend."

Deakin's departure, however, is unlikely to give Barton any more flexibility in the transfer market, with money still tight at St George's Lane.

The 34-year-old was signed by former boss Graham Allner from Kidderminster in August last year, and he scored a handful of vital goals to help City avoid relegation from the Premier Division.

Barton said: "Since I have been here he has carried out his business in an exemplary manner, and he weighed in with some important contributions last year for which we were eternally grateful. We wish him well."

City are due to visit Ryman League Premier Division side Hendon in the second round of the FA Umbro Trophy tomorrow (3pm).

However, heavy rain in north London has placed the game in considerable doubt, and a pitch inspection is due to be made at the Loot Stadium at 9.30am tomorrow.

Barton admitted he was not hopeful of the game going ahead. "My main concern at the moment is getting the game played. The forecast down there today is horrendous to say the least, which could put it out of reach." The sides will try again on Monday if the match is off, which is also the date set aside for a possible replay.

Former City striker Sam Bowen, who was surprisingly released by Evesham earlier this week, has signed for Premier Division strugglers Halesowen Town.