AN appalling catalogue of injuries shows no signs of abating at St George's Lane with Ian Cottrill suffering a reoccurrence of his knee problem.

But one bright spot for Worcester City fans has been the full debut of Dwain McFarlane in the Belper Town FA Cup tie.

The youngster has shown flashes of his undoubted ability during his substitute appearances, but it was excellent to see him given a full run-out.

His pace and skill are certainly assets that could boost City who struggled to impose themselves during the two matches with Belper -- despite creating a number of chances.

Jon Holloway's switch to right back was another plus point and, though he has played the entire season in central midfield, I felt he shored up the City defence and looked very composed and competitive.

One player who has been desperately missed in recent games is Paul Carty whose physical presence allied to good skill add another dimension to the midfield.

New signing Darren Bullock is battling to get up to match fitness and his competitive brand of play has already earned two bookings.

Yet his dead-ball ability and quick thinking created three of the goals in the Belper games and when fully fit he could form a powerful partnership with Carty.

Jamie Hyde was recalled for the replay and according to City manager John Barton has been training hard and improving his strength.

One ingredient Hyde needs more than any other is confidence. He's definitely got ability and now it is a case of proving to everyone that he can do it on a regular basis and stake a claim to the left wing back berth.

Up front Darren Middleton is starting to score goals for fun and has struck four in his last three games.

The only problem with moving Middleton up front is that City have missed his pace and stamina in the middle of the park where in recent matches they have been overrun at times.

It's been a splendid few days for Worcester and the crowd of 2,377 was a reminder of the club's huge potential.

But with the Rushden & Diamonds match set to be restricted to 4,000 all-ticket it is also a timely reminder of the club's need for a new ground if City are to tap that potential.

City could probably attract a gate of at least 6,000 for the Rushden match, but this is no longer feasible at St George's Lane.

If Worcester wants to see crowds of 7,000 plus again then a ground shift is imperative -- it's time for the Blue and Whites to B&Q it!