WORCESTER City have released long-serving defender Chris Greenman.

The 33-year-old former Coventry player has been freed by manager John Barton to give him a chance of first team football elsewhere, having been restricted by injury in the last two seasons.

He is the second player to leave City this week following striker Phil Stant's move to Dover Athletic, as Barton seeks to balance his books.

Greenman, who made 275 appearances for the club since arriving in October 1994, had not played since dislocating a shoulder in a pre-season friendly against Boston United. He was also kept out for almost a year by a knee ligament injury.

Barton said: "He is pursuing a couple of options that would give him a chance of first-team football.

"It is frustrating for him to have only been involved for five months out of the last two years, but he has been a terrific servant for the club.

"He is a first-class character and we thank him for his services and wish him all the best for the future."

Barton was handed a boost last night after Allan Davies, Mark Shepherd, Dwaine McFarlane and Andy Ellis were declared fit to join the squad for their trip to Hednesford Town tomorrow (3pm).

Midfielder Leon Jackson will not be risked because of a knee problem but captain Carl Heeley, who was carried off in last week's victory over Salisbury, has recovered from a foot injury.

For Paul Carty, who enjoyed both championship and FA Cup glory with the Pitmen, tomorrow's Dr Martens Premier Division clash allows no time for sentiment.

He said: "When I left the club three years ago they were still a major force in the Conference but have had a poor run in recent years.

"It's surprising to see them struggling near the bottom because teams that normally drop down bounce straight back up.

"But they've picked up recently and Kenny Hibbitt seems to have stabilised things and a few of experience players are playing again."

The left-back is more concerned about helping City earn three points and staking a claim in Barton's future plans.

"It's been well documented that John has told us that we've got to perform or face being shown the door," he said.

"Our objective tomorrow is to get three points and build on recent displays. The confidence is flowing through the side at the moment especially after the Salisbury game."