WORCESTER City manager Richard Dryden has been forced back to the drawing board in his search for a new striker.

The St George’s Lane boss went to watch Bristol Rovers reserves before Monday’s FA Cup third qualifying round replay clash with AFC Telford United to run his eye over former West Ham United trainee Ben Hunt.

However, the 19-year-old Rovers striker limped off with a calf injury after just 12 minutes in the match with Cardiff City reserves.

“That has been the story for us this season,” Dryden said. “I went to watch Bristol Rovers reserves play and Ben went off early on.

“There were a few clubs interested in him and I have to decide whether to wait for when he is fit or look elsewhere.

“Teams like Bristol Rovers and Cheltenham Town will do us deals, but our hands are tied in who we can bring in.”

City created a number of chances in their 1-0 defeat to Telford and Dryden believes his players will get goals, but admits he needs some extra firepower.

“Matt Dinsmore will get us goals, so will Marco Adaggio. Rob Elvins is a different type of player but he needs to start getting goals as well — and he will do,” Dryden said.

“But we still need another striker, so I feel like I have been kicked in the teeth.”