MANAGER Richard Dryden says Worcester City will miss the physical presence of Rob Elvins in Saturday’s match at Eastleigh (3pm).

The former Aldershot striker starts the first of a three-game ban following his red card in the 2-2 draw at Hampton and Richmond two weeks ago.

Elvins has played in all but one of City’s games this season but has come in for an increasing amount of criticism from fans.

Dryden, though, feels that is unwarranted and believes his absence will create a big void to fill against the Hampshire outfit.

Marco Adaggio is the front-runner to partner Marc McGregor but the manager is hopeful of adding another attacking option to his squad ahead of the match.

He said: “I have got a few options and am still looking for one more player to come in before the weekend but we will miss Rob.

“Looking at comments in the media and from supporters, he could be the new Craig Wilding with all the stick he’s getting which is disappointing because he gives his heart and soul. By the same token, Craig is now winning the fans over.”

City go into the match looking to build on Monday’s 4-1 thrashing of Weston-super-Mare and make it four games unbeaten in Blue Square South against a team just two points better off in the table.

Eastleigh, managed by Dryden’s old Bristol City team-mate Ian Baird, drew 0-0 with Hampton and Richmond in mid-week but were surprise 5-3 winners at Dover in the FA Cup at the weekend.

Dryden’s men were beaten 1-0 in both fixtures last season but the manager believes he has a better team now.

He said: “They are just above us and did exceptionally well last season getting to the play-offs.

“They are a big, strong team and, when we played them last year, I thought it was men against boys.

“Both games were difficult and the reason we only lost 1-0 at their place was because of Danny McDonnell in goal.

“We know what to expect and have got to stand up and be counted like we have all season. We have got big players who want to compete and have got quality as well.

“We are not a thuggish side but can stick up for ourselves if necessary.

“It’s topsy-turvy in the league and what we have tried to do is strive for consistency. I think we are getting there.”

Left-back Shabir Khan is a doubt after contracting swine flu but captain Tom Kemp, who missed Monday through illness, could return.

Rob Davies has a throat infection but fellow midfielder Jordan Fitzpatrick and winger Louis Bridges (both ankle) miss out.

Alfie Carter would be the likely replacement for Khan but Dryden is unconcerned by the situation.

He added: “It’s a strain of flu. We are not going to make too much of it and nor is Shabir.”