DAVID Foy has been given the go-ahead to step up his fitness programme.

The Worcester City midfielder recently had surgery on a non-football related groin problem but is hopeful of a return to action, possibly in as little as a fortnight.

Foy has made just 12 starts in a frustrating start to the campaign for the ex-Tamworth player who signed for the St George's Lane club in the summer of 2002.

Record signing Jai Stanley is still sidelined although he is on the comeback trail from a knee operation.

With the transfer-listed Darren Middleton relegated to the bench, Foy could yet fill an important role for the club in central midfield.

However Liam McDonald's recent emergence means there is no guarantee Foy will walk back into the team and will face a fight to recapture his place.

"Both David and Jai Stanley are making good progress and I'd like to think that both are getting close to playing some football again, possibly inside two weeks," said Barton.

"David will possibly be a little ahead of Jai but both are back training and we look forward to having them back playing."

Meanwhile Jon Holloway continues to make steady progress on the comeback trail from a groin injury.

"Jon saw a specialist again last week and they are happy with what he is doing in terms of rehabilitation," said manager John Barton.

Holloway could be drafted into central defence for today's Dr Martens Premier Division clash against Nuneaton Borough at St George's Lane with Barry Woolley still doubtful.

Woolley picked up an injury on the inside of his thigh in Monday's 2-0 defeat to Moor Green in the Dr Martens League Cup and is set for a late fitness test.

Holloway and City captain Carl Heeley, who were virtual ever presents together last season, have played just eight matches together this season at the heart of the defence.

That spell of games ended in the 2-1 defeat at Nuneaton when both players picked up injuries with Holloway's keeping him out for more than three months.