JORDAN Stoddart revealed how ex-professional Wayne Thomas has encouraged him to dictate Worcester City's tempo from the back.

Worcester-born Stoddart was drafted in from Cirencester Town in November to add physical presence to City’s backline.

But having partnered ex-Burnley, Southampton and Stoke ace Thomas in six out of his eight matches since signing Stoddart admits his experienced colleague is having a telling influence on his style.

“Sometimes it can be a bit route one in this league but even as a defender I like to get on the ball,” said Stoddart.

“We have the type of team that likes to get it down and play. Tommo (Thomas) is more than comfortable in possession with his experience and is always telling me to do the same.

“In certain situations the gaffer just wants us to head it but from day one I have always wanted to get involved and get us playing when the time is right.

“It is something defenders need to have nowadays. It is an aspect that is coming into the game more and more, especially as you go up the leagues.

“Managers and players look to play out from the back now more than ever. I feel confident heading and tackling, that’s the first part of the job, but I am also more than happy on the deck.

“It takes some pressure off the midfield as well when you’re not lumping it up and missing them out. They can take passes and make things happen.”

Last weekend saw a five-match unbeaten run come to a shuddering halt after going 4-0 down at home to Midland League Premier Division title rivals Sporting Khalsa, a match City clawed their way back into before losing 5-3.

But Stoddart, a constant presence in the league for Cirencester Town at the level above prior to joining City, was adamant spirits remain high going into today’s trip to Rugby Town (3pm).

“I feel like I have settled in well and everyone has been brilliant,” he added.

“Getting used to a new team in the middle of a season can be tricky but it has been quite smooth and I seem to have got my bearings.

“We have some big games coming up and apart from last Saturday we have been getting results despite the conditions and having delays with the fixtures.

“We know what we want to do and where we want to get to. Confidence is still high.”

Meanwhile, City’s under-21s host their Rushall Olympic counterparts at Claines Lane today (10.30am).

Worcester sit second in Midland League Under-21 West, six points behind leaders Boldmere St Michaels with two games in hand.