MANAGER John Barton is chasing a Nationwide Conference player ahead of Worcester City's Dr Martens Premier Division clash with Cambridge City on Saturday.

But City's boss is doubtful whether he will be able to finalise a deal to land the player and bolster his depleted squad in time for the weekend match at St George's Lane club.

"I've spoken to a player but we're some way off concluding a deal," he said. "It's the same old story of clubs not wanting to release players with cup competitions coming up."

Barton is keen to add to his squad in the wake of Worcester's defeat in the FA Umbro Trophy at the hands of lowly Mangotsfield United, who are struggling a division below City in the Dr Martens Western Division.

Meanwhile Ian Cottrill, who has missed City's last four mat-ches, is set to see a specialist to-day about his troublesome knee.

Darren Middleton, who injured his knee in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Mangotsfield, is also hoping to see a specialist to determine the extent of the damage.

Meanwhile, Worcester City lost 1-0 at Telford last night in a Central Conference game.