ALFIE Carter’s bid to return to the Worcester City team has suffered a setback following the postponement of last night’s reserves match.

The versatile left-sided player has been on the sidelines for a month with a hip problem but was due to be involved against FCV Reds in the Central Conference League encounter at St George’s Lane.

However, the game was called off yesterday morning because Birmingham City’s community trust, who run the reserve side for City, were not informed of the fixture in time.

Carter was part of manager Richard Dryden’s plans for Monday’s home Blue Square South clash against Weston-super-Mare.

Keeper Jake Meredith would also have played as he continues to challenge Ben Hinchliffe for the number one jersey.

Dryden said: “A lack of communication is probably the best way to describe it.

“I was desperate for Alfie to have a game with a view to getting him involved on Monday so that’s put the mockers on things.

“Jake was also going to play so it’s a bit of a kick in the teeth.”

City are without a match tomorrow because scheduled opponents Chelmsford are involved in the FA Cup and that home fixture has been re-arranged for Monday, November 9 (7.45pm).

Instead, the players will report for training and midfielders Craig Wilding and Gary Walker are expected to be involved despite both carrying knocks.

“It will be a training session like a Thursday night,” Dryden added.

“We will be able to train for longer and the lads should be a bit fresher because they won’t have to come straight from work.”