THE guessing game is almost over for Worcester City fans as the unveiling of their new manager draws ever closer.

The new boss could well be named in time for Saturday's Dr Martens League Premier Division game at Grantham Town.

City's directors are left with a tough choice to make from a short-list of six to succeed George Rooney, who left the club last month, with the likes of Graham Allner, Colin Addison, John Barton and current City coach Mick Tuohy in the frame.

But it would be right not to ignore the contribution of Tuohy and Graham Selby as caretaker managers, having been left in temporary charge following Rooney's departure.

The two former City players, who were coach and assistant manager respectively under Rooney, were very much left in a no-win situation.

But performances have gradually picked up and a run of good results has put them back on the fringes of the leading pack. Previously, they were in danger of being sucked into a relegation fight.

The table is so close at present that while City may be only six points outside the relegation zone, they are also only six points off third place! Runaway leaders Nuneaton are well out of reach, but it just shows what a good run could do for City, and what potential there is for the new man when he takes over.

After Saturday's game at Grantham, City return to home action next Monday with a re-arranged game against Salisbury City.

City's reserves entertain Telford United in the Central Conference tonight (7.30), and are at home to Willenhall Town on Saturday in the Endsleigh Midland Combination.

Wednesday, January 6, 1999.