JOHN Barton has handed Worcester City duo Liam McDonald and Dan Parker a boost by saying he wouldn't hesitate to use them.

The St George's Lane academy graduates have had limited opportunities to date but City boss Barton insists they are very much in his thoughts.

With Carl Heeley (thigh) and Jon Holloway (groin) in the treatment room Parker in particular could find himself thrust into contention for a place against Weymouth next weekend and Barton admits he likes what he sees in the young defender.

"As with Dan Jones before we wouldn't be frightened of putting Dan Parker in and it's the same with Liam Mc-Donald," said Barton.

"They are in the frame, waiting patiently for an opportunity and once it presents itself they need to be in the best nick to take advantage of it.

"Unfortunately due to circumstances they've probably had less football than anybody on the staff but they are in our thoughts.

"Dan defends the goal well and does what he's good at. He doesn't try and over complicate things.

"He's no thrills to his game but is a good defender."

Parker and McDonald were among four trainees offered contracts in the summer along with Dean Smith, who has since left to move down south, and Richard Tomkins who rejected a deal and joined Bromsgrove Rovers.

Barton believes that despite their lack of first team action they can still learn from their more experienced counterparts.

"Both Liam and Dan are excellent character wise," he added.

"They obviously both want to play and are frustrated they've not had enough football but they are both very much part of the squad.

"Hopefully, despite not playing, they will still have benefited from being around the squad and seeing what it's like and what they are up against at this level."

City's reserve team are in action again on Monday night at St George's Lane when they take on Bromsgrove Rovers.