FAN power can again play a big part in helping Worcester City to success, says manager John Barton.

The level of support his team has attracted this season has impressed the City boss.

A turnout of 1,361 for their opening home game of the season against Bath City, following a similar gate for their final pre-season friendly against Wolves, emphasised the support potential City have.

Another four-figure gate was expected for today's clash with Stafford Rangers, and the fans will flock in greater numbers if City can stay in the Dr Martens League Premier Division title race.

But Barton says the way the fans have backed his team has, if anything, been more impressive than the sheer numbers.

Supporters appreciated the way he turned round a desperate position last season, and also gave them fleeting glory in the FA Umbro Trophy - as witnessed when around 1,000 City fans travelled to Telford for their 4-1 defeat in the last 16.

Barton says if City are successful this season, it will be for the benefit of the people who pay their money at the turnstiles.

He said "I think people have enjoyed the game against Bath on Monday and the ones that travelled enjoyed the game at Tamworth.

"We have had fantastic support since November, and it has been encouragement as opposed to criticism.

"As much as they may think criticism doesn't affect players, I can assure them that it does. Contrary to belief, most footballers aren't the positive, outgoing characters some people think they are.

"We haven't had that criticism - it has been great vocal support and encouragement. There were games last year when we didn't give them too much to cheer about, but nonetheless they were behind us all the way.

"They are one of the main reasons why we want to give them a better season".