VERSATILE former Aston Villa man Richard Crisp has played his way into Stourport Swifts' plans for the coming season.

The 30-year-old, who has also turned out for Telford and Halesowen Town, can operate anywhere on the pitch.

But boss Tim Langford has been using him in midfield and he admitted: "Richard will be an invaluable member of the squad if he stays injury-free.

"He was out for 12 months with a heel injury but has already proved to be a good motivator."

Langford dismissed the last two friendlies as fitness exercises after Swifts surprisingly slipped 4-1 at Boldmere but then beat Stourbridge 3-2 on Monday.

Kerry Giddings scored in both games with trialists Jamie Stanier and Anthony Fletcher also on target against Midland Alliance champions Stourbridge.

Swifts will field a former Football League striker on trial in a friendly with Rushall Olympic at Walshes Meadow tonight (7.45pm).

They pit their wits against Conference club Telford on Saturday (3pm) when Langford hopes to have decided the futures of Swifts' numerous trialists.

Swifts then entertain Worcester on Tuesday (7.45pm).