JAMIE Smith must face the “harsh reality” that Worcester City cannot afford to pick him if he continues to make the “same mistakes”.

Manager Carl Heeley hinted the home-grown ace could go out on loan to gain experience and game-time.

He admitted the left-sided Smith, who struggled in their 4-3 friendly win over Romulus last week, needed to “learn quickly” to stay in the team.

Heeley said: “He is still finding his way and will improve but the harsh realities are you have got to learn quickly in this game and I see Jamie making the same mistakes.

“But it’s not about blaming people. It’s about learning from your mistakes and trying to correct them.”

Smith, who made 13 first-team appearances last term, signed a new deal in the summer and Heeley insisted the versatile player was part of his plans this season.

However, City’s boss said he may look at setting him up with a club to get more minutes under his belt.

“He might need to go out and get some games, so we will talk about that and see if that is the best option for Jamie.” Heeley said.

“I am (confident in him) but I am not sure he is a natural left-back although that was his position.

“I probably see him further forward but it was needs must (against Romulus) as we had a couple of injuries.”