NORMAL service resumes on Saturday with the start of City's league campaign and already the adrenaline is pumping in anticipation of a successful season for John Barton and his team.

Worcester's supporters will be divided between the wildly optimistic who dream of championships and the pessimists who have come not to expect much over the years.

The truth is probably somewhere in between but the quality of the squad is certainly better than at this stage 12 months ago.

A natural wide player is still needed, though Barton is hoping for some good news on that score imminently, and the squad remains too small but certainly there have been some encouraging signs during pre season.

John Snape looks set to have the desired impact in midfield while I've been impressed with Mark Owen since his return and Pat Lyons guards possession jealously.

Jon Holloway has thrown down the gauntlet to Allan Davies at right back and David Foy could add some much-needed flair. However, unless Barton is given more leeway to strengthen his squad, injuries could spike City's ambitions.

With a heavy fixture programme in the first six weeks the likelihood of injuries being picked up is all too apparent.

Already Marc Burrow and Stewart Hadley are out, leaving just 14 established first team outfield players so room for manoeuvre is limited.

Hadley is due to see a specialist about his Achilles on Friday after a month's rest but in the worst case scenario the former Harriers striker may need surgery.

Burrow's back could rule him out for two weeks or two months but his loss is a blow because he is the obvious cover for Mark Shail and Carl Heeley.

Saturday brings newly promoted Hastings to St George's Lane and, aside from the old joke about them being a battling side, Barton faces a selection dilemma over both Lyons and Foy.

Lyons played his first 90 minutes against Bedworth on Tuesday but was very tired after the match while Foy has missed two weeks.

This could pave the way for Darren Middleton to start. He will be looking for the form that illuminated City's play prior to his injury last season.