WORCESTER City face stiff competition from Dr Martens Premier Division rivals Crawley Town to sign defender Jim Rodwell.

The experienced Rodwell play-ed an hour at St George's Lane last night in City's 3-2 defeat against West Bromwich Albion, 24 hours after turning out for the Sussex club in another friendly.

Manager John Barton has identified the signing of a central defender as key to his plans for the forthcoming season and believes Rodwell would fit the bill.

"He looked a bit heavy-legged but that was his second game in 24 hours and once he sharpens up he will be a real presence," said Barton.

"Jim's the kind of character we are looking for - he's larger than life both on and off the pitch. He's played at the top level of non-league football and all his managers are delighted with what he has done.

"I would like to sign him but obviously he has got other options including Crawley," added Barton.

The 33-year-old former Halesowen Town, Dagenham, Boston United, Rushden & Diamonds and Farnborough player demonstrated his aerial ability but the electric pace of Albion's Jason Roberts proved too hot to handle, not just for Rodwell but for City's defence as a whole.

The transfer-listed Hawthorns ace used his speed to create Albion's first goal before striking himself either side of half time, the second a deft chip from the edge of the box.

City had earlier taken the lead through a well-taken Adam Wilde goal.

Mark Owen headed a second for City, moments after missing a penalty, 10 minutes from time.