MARK Owen is on stand-by to replace Adam Webster in the Worcester City squad if the striker fails to recover from illness ahead of tomorrow's trip to Cambridge City (3pm).

Webster was sent home from work yesterday after complaining of feeling unwell and missed training last night.

Defender Mark Shail is also suffering with City manager John Barton worried he may be coming down with another bout of the tonsillitis that he had over Christmas and New Year.

"Mark's on antibiotics so we need to wait and see and it's a similar situation with Adam, but if you remember last time he was ill it was quite serious so it's fingers crossed," said Barton.

The St George's Lane boss had pencilled Owen in for a reserve game, but may be forced to take the forward to Cambridge.

Allan Davies, who was rested for last week's 3-1 win against Weymouth, is in the squad but will see a specialist along with David Holmes next week. Both are suffering from groin injuries and Holmes is expected to have surgery.

Barton also confirmed midfielder Pat Lyons will have to have an operation on a hip flexor muscle injury, but John Snape is making good progress in his rehabilitation from groin surgery.

Captain Carl Heeley looks set to continue in a midfield role for tomorrow's Dr Martens Premier Division clash, while Jon Holloway and Dan Jones could be paired together in central defence if Shail fails to recover with Davies back in at right back.

Barton is hoping Adam Wilde's return to his old club will spark the winger back to form and lead their charge for a strong finish to the season.

"I know one person who will want to win more than anybody -- Adam Wilde," said Barton.

"Hopefully last week's result will also give the whole team a bit of confidence because it's not been at its highest."

City's reserves entertain Gresley Rovers tomorrow (2.45).