ASHLEY Vincent “would have no problem” if Worcester City kicked off the league campaign with rookies Liam Lockett and Josh Willis in the engine room.

City have been short of central midfield options during pre-season following the departures of Brad Birch and Nathan Hayward, Robbie Bunn’s U-turn, wanted man Sean Geddes penning terms with Quorn and converted full-back Tyler Weir suffering with injury.

Lockett may well be man of the moment, particularly after providing two assists in Saturday’s 3-2 friendly defeat to Stratford Town, but Willis has also stood out in his holding role.

And with assistant manager Vincent pleased by what he has seen the duo could be in line to retain their places for Saturday’s Midland League Premier Division opener at Boldmere St Michaels (3pm).

“The two young boys were fantastic against a side from two levels above on Saturday,” said Vincent.

“They had no fear and personally I would have no problem in sending them out in competitive matches.

“We don’t know whether they’re physically ready to play a full season or what they will be like against a rugged midfield because they are still young boys.

“But there is only one way to find out and that’s where I stand on the youth. Every step we have asked them to take, every challenge we have put in front of them they have exceeded expectations.”

Weir could throw his hat into the ring if he recovers from groin and thigh strains in time to feature in Tuesday’s final warm-up match at home to Stourbridge at the Victoria Ground, Bromsgrove (7.45pm).

“I wouldn’t say it is impossible but for Tyler to be close to starting on Saturday I assume he would need to play a large chunk of the Stourbridge game,” said Vincent.

“That would be down to the manager (John Snape) but he does need some minutes. I think we have seen about 60 from him in pre-season and some of the other boys have played 300 or 400.”

Vincent is hopeful last season’s top scorer Dave Reynolds, full-back Joel Caines, trialling midfielder Ben Clarke and player/first-team coach Mat Birley will also be available.

“Outside of National League level they are as big as you’re going to get,” said Vincent on facing the Glassboys.

“It will be a really good test not only for the young boys but the players looking to perform and push on their careers. This will let them see where they are.

“If we have Mat and Ben, it goes to a good-looking midfield with plenty of attributes, options and competition for places. It will be down to the manager to decide what he wants us to look at."