FEW would have expected Martin Weir to be taking a back seat during Worcester City's up the Dr Martens League Premier Division table.

The former Kidderminster Harriers defender, who was former boss Graham Allner's last signing at St George's Lane in October last year, played a huge role in steering City clear of relegation.

His form was such alongside Mark Tucker in the centre that he scooped both City player of the year awards from the supporters and his fellow supporters, and also won the Evening News' Ray Mercer Memorial Trophy.

But this season has been a frustrating one for the 32-year-old, having had his appearances restricted by a groin problem and then a knee injury --- and consequently he's not started a first-team game since last September.

Even through he's now almost fully fit again, the superlative form of Carl Heeley and the transfer-listed Tucker has made it almost impossible for either man to be dropped.

As a result, Weir has been left kicking his heels on the substitutes' bench.

But he's still performed with his usual consistency when called into the action, notably in the later stages of last Monday's FA Umbro Trophy second round clash with Hendon which helped City hang on for a 1-1 draw, setting up a St George's Lane replay on Monday night.

He also stands a chance of a recall in today's home clash with Ilkeston Town, with manager John Barton contemplating a switch to three central defenders.

Weir has played a handful of games for the second string in the Central Conference recently, but a rash of postponements due to the horrendous weather have hampered his road to recovery.

He admitted: "I have had a torrid time this season. I caught quite a bad tackle in the FA Cup tie against Cirencester which wrenched my knee.

"It is just frustrating. I just want to get back playing again.

"The weather hasn't helped -- reserve games have been called off and training sessions have been cancelled. That has interrupted me as well as the lads doing really well at the back."

But Weir said he's prepared to be patient and wait for his chance. "I just have to bide my time.

"It is more frustrating because my fitness level is not what I want it to be. I need to get some games in."

After Monday's Trophy replay, City face a hectic spell of four games in nine days over the Christmas and New Year period.

Next Saturday they entertain King's Lynn, on Boxing Day they make the short trip to Halesowen Town, on December 30 they travel to high-flying Crawley Town and on New Year's Day Newport County visit St George's Lane. All four matches kick-off at 3pm.