By Peter McKinney

BROMSGROVE Rovers manager Jimmy Mullen has admitted that he is getting frustrated at his attempts to sign a potent striker before the start of the Southern League Division One West next week.

The Rovers manager wants desperately to find a 20-goal-a-season striker to replace last season's top scorer Paul Szewczyk.

So far all of his efforts have been hampered. Mullen decided not to bring in Welshpool striker Steve Rogers because of travel problems.

Rogers, who scored 22 goals in the Welsh Premier League last season, does not drive and would have to be picked up and dropped off at his home in Shrewsbury.

Mullen is waiting to hear if Hednesford forward Chris Smith wants to return, while Paul Moore snubbed Rovers on Saturday to play for Redditch United.

Mullen said: "The search goes on. It's just a case of persevering in the targets I have identified.

"We are making every effort but there's a lot of competition for strikers at the moment."

Rovers have signed Lee Greenway from Bedworth United, but despite solid performances he has struggled for goals.

Leon Mitchell is set to play in tonight's penultimate pre-season at home to Walsall (Wednesday, 7.45pm kick off), after overcoming a minor knee injury.

Former Arsenal and Aston Villa playmaker Paul Merson could grace the pitch at the Victoria Ground in tonight's friendly.

Merson, who is the Saddlers' player/coach, has played in Walsall's matches against Hednesford and Worcester City - and has been included in the squad for tonight.

Mullen said: "It would be fantastic if Paul was to play. He's still a marvelous player."

Defender Jon Newall may sign after the Walsall game, if he impresses.

Newall is currently at Causeway United but is eager for a move.

Goalkeeper Andy Pryce, who debuted against Hereford last week, is also set to sign.

l Defender Matt Gardiner wants Mullen to give him the captaincy for Saturday's friendly at Redditch United (3pm kick off).

Gardiner spent two season at The Valley Stadium, helping them to win the Southern League Western Division title and promotion to the Nationwide Conference North.