STUNNED Rob Warner remains confident of his own ability despite being told he was not good enough for Worcester City's wing-back berth.

Warner was one of two players axed by manager Andy Preece after City's final Nationwide North match at Worksop, with understudy goalkeeper Lewis Skyers also shown the door.

The 29-year-old defender, who started every league game except one this season, admits Preece's announcement came as a shock.

Building on his tried-and-tested 3-5-2 system, Preece wanted a 'more attacking' right wing-back, in a similar mould to Adam Burley on the left flank.

"It was a shock," said Warner. "To be honest, I did not see it coming. I was looking forward to another year at Worcester.

"I'm very disappointed, but it's the manager's decision. It's up to him if he wants me in his make-up and he's seen enough of me to make that decision.

"I understand where he's coming from. I've played enough games to know what being an attacking wing-back is all about.

"I've spent a large part of my career at right-back in a 4-4-2. There's a lot of yardage to cover as wing-back. But I'm confident of my own ability."

Preece is demanding wing-backs who can chip in with five to 10 goals a season, while Warner, formerly of Hereford United and Tamworth, scored just once in 100 City appearances.

Warner added: "There's a good set of lads at Worcester. I like everybody at the club and I really hope they can win promotion next season."