NICKY Cross has made a seven-day approach for a Dr Martens Western defender as he continues to fine tune his Redditch squad.

He is believed to be interested in signing Evesham United defender Ian West after the loss of Leon Jackson and Lee knight in the summer and injuries to Tommy Byrne and Nigel Niblett.

His latest dip into the transfer market comes days after the capture of Bromsgrove midfielder Steve Frost.

The uncompromising Rovers midfielder, who worked with Reds assistant Gary Hackett at Stourport and Bromsgrove, was drafted in as a defender against Gloucester City after the late withdrawal of Tommy Byrne with a heel injury.

Niblett underwent treatment on a calf injury last week and has a chance of returning for the visit of newly-formed Bloxwich United on Saturday (ko 3pm).

But fellow stopper Byrne could be out for longer after seeing a specialist last week and having an injection on Monday which will take a week to assess.

Wing back Scott Colcombe has overcome a foot injury but there is doubt over whether he is serving a two or three match ban, the former would see him available on Saturday.

Former Solihull Borough goal machine Joey Dowling is set to be available for the trip to Western Division newcomers Halesowen Town on Bank Holiday Monday (ko 7.30pm).

Reds target Aeonghous Martin has joined the Yeltz and could line up against his pre-season team mates on Monday.