INJURIES have depleted John Barton's Worcester City squad but supporters will have been pleased to see Paul Carty return to the bench for Tuesday's game against Merthyr Tydfil.

The skilful midfielder has been badly missed since limping off early in the pre-season friendly against Boston United.

His return to fitness and form would be like signing a new player admits Barton.

"A fit and healthy Paul Carty would be an asset to any side but we've had nothing from him all since July," said Barton.

"To get him back would be like getting another recruit."

Another City player who has had more than his fair share of injuries is Nathan Jukes and Barton is hopeful he can now start to realise his potential.

Fortunately Jukes has managed to stay injury free for the last six games and is beginning to show glimpses of his undoubted ability.

"Since I've been at the club we have been talking about him in terms of ability but that potential has been affected by injury," said Barton.

"Last year he missed a large chunk of the season and although he is in the second year of his contract I don't think we have seen the full range of his ability.

"He came to the club as a midfield player but we've cultivated him as a left-back and now we're looking for him to show us what he can do."

Barton's sparse defensive resources were further exposed with Martin Weir's injury in mid-week and the City boss admits he's not having much luck in bringing in either a permanent or loan signing.

"It's very difficult at the moment, but whether we bring in someone on loan or permanently depends on what is available and at the moment it is not a lot," he said.

City's first choice keeper, Danny McDonnell, who has not played since the Kettering defeat, is set to be out for at least another month as he battles to recover from a back injury.

He is set to have an epidural to enable him to strengthen his muscles and get back to full fitness.

Meanwhile, former Worcester defender Matthew Gardiner, who flew the St George's Lane nest after just four games, has linked up with Phil Mullen's Robins at Evesham United.