DES Lyttle is tonight expected to make his first appearance in a Worcester City shirt for 13 years (7.30).

The 33-year-old defender is on trial at St George's Lane and due to feature against Carlisle United as Andy Preece endeavours to sign a replacement for retired veteran Paul Carty.

Lyttle made his mark for Worcester from 1990 and 1992, making 64 appearances, before enjoying a long Football League career at clubs including Swansea City, Nottingham Forest and West Brom.

With reducing numbers at the back and a depletion of experience following the loss of Carty, Carl Heeley and John Snape, player-manager Preece is expected to offer Lyttle a deal.

"We are going to have a good look at Des," admits Preece. "Maybe something will happen, but it is important that we put a little bit of experience back into the squad."

Striker Preece will also take to the field against his former club, while wholesale changes are likely to be made at half-time to give the bulk of City's squad a 45-minute run-out.

New signings Graham Hyde and Chris Smith will make their non-competitive debuts and Danny McDonnell and James Smith are set to figure despite picking up dead legs during Tuesday's training session.

The issue on who will skipper City is still undecided, although the captain's armband is expected to be shared during the friendly.

"I'm excited about the new season, but these friendlies are important to us and we will look to keep building until the first league game on August 13."

Preece spent 14 months at Carlisle and picked up a winners' medal in May when they gained promotion to Coca-Cola League Two via the Conference play-off final.

His close ties with the Cumbrians helped fix up the meeting and Preece is excited at entertaining his former side.

"It will be good to see all the Carlisle lads again," he added.

Former Newcastle United defender Jamie McClen is on trial at Brunton Park and set to play.

Worcester City FC Supporters Club are holding their annual meeting on Monday, July 18, at 7.45pm, in the club's Harry Knowles Lounge.