WORCESTER City boss John Barton has called for fresh investment from the club to boost their title challenge.

City begin the New Year in sixth place in the Dr Martens League Premier Division following yesterday's thrilling 4-4 draw with Newport County.

But Barton says lack of funds are hampering his efforts to bring in fresh faces to boost his squad for the run-in.

"I think unless investment comes in, the wheels will start to slow down and eventually come off.

"We need to look at how we are going to bridge that next bit in order to take the team on.

"We have discussed it and the options that we have got are being pursued. But it is careful calculated thinking at the moment."

Barton has earmarked three players he wants to bring in to strengthen his squad. He added: "They would make an impact, form part of the team for next season and help keep us out of the cattle market next summer.

"That is as I see it. Whether we can do that, I don't know. But we need to make sure that what improvement has been made isn't blown away."

Barton says he has discussed the situation with members of the board.

"We have discussed it, but the financial situation is still delicate and finely balanced despite what we have done in terms of cutting down our commitments to players."

Yesterday's game saw City miss a chance to significantly close the gap on title favourites Burton Albion, who went down 2-1 at Ilkeston.

Barton said: "We were disappointed not to have won the game, having been 2-0 in front and then 4-3, but I have to say on reflection that a draw was probably a fair result.

"We conceded some poor goals and the defending from both sides made sure that the opposition were always in with a chance.

"Newport are not a bad side and on current form I would put them on a par with Burton."

City's next game is at home to new leaders Margate on Saturday.

Barton added: "It is a great game for us, and anybody who came yesterday will be in anticipation of something similar."