WORCESTER City manager John Barton is stepping up his efforts to strengthen his squad for next season's challenge in the newly formed Conference North.

The St George's Lane boss is holding further talks with a potential signing today and believes he will need at least five new players to make his side competitive.

Tamworth full-back Rob Warner was unveiled earlier this week in City's first transfer swoop of the season.

"We are pushing on with transfer target number two who is an exciting prospect and we are still looking to bring in five players," said Barton.

"We have got to remember that we have gone up another level and we have to make sure the standard of playing staff goes up accordingly."