ETHAN Moore has been thrown a lifeline after Worcester City performed a U-turn on their decision to release the striker.

The 20-year-old former Aston Villa youth teamer looked to have played his final game for the Skrill North club following last week’s departure.

City cited a lack of commitment from the player but have welcomed him back into the fold after Moore, who was on trial with Forest Green Rovers, picked up the phone to manager Carl Heeley.

Gloucestershire-based Moore, who initially signed for the club last season, scored the only goal in Tuesday’s friendly victory at Evesham United.

Heeley said: “We released Ethan because he’d missed too many training sessions and it was difficult for him but, in fairness to the lad, he’s contacted us again and asked for help to get another club.

“He realises his application hasn’t been quite good enough and has asked for a second chance.

“We’re reasonable people, he’s a good player and we’re happy to give him that second chance.

“There’s nothing to lose for us so he’s come back in and repaid us with a goal so it’s a good start for him.

“The door’s open for Ethan, he knows Worcester City are a good club at a good level of football and there’s not too many of them around.

“The positives are he recognises that and he’s been big enough to ask for another opportunity.

“If he keeps doing what he’s doing, there will be an opportunity for him at the club.”

At least one more player is expected to agree a deal before the weekend, while some of the trialists could be dual-registered, meaning they can play for clubs lower down the non-league ladder.

One of those is midfielder George Washbourne, the former Forest Green Rovers left winger who joined City in June but has since played friendlies for Calor Southern League Premier Division outfit Stourbridge.

Heeley explained: “George is registered with the club, however, we feel he’s not quite ready for Conference North football so I’ve had a chat with him and given him the opportunity to dual-register and get regular football.

“He’s certainly one we want to keep our eye on but, at this moment in time, he’s a bit short of first-team football and needs that exposure at a lower level.

“He won’t be the only one we’ll dual-register, there will be others that we’ll take a similar route with.”

City play their final pre-season friendly at Rushall Olympic on Saturday (3pm).

Season tickets can be collected from The Pheasant pub, New Street, from noon until 2pm today and tomorrow.