CONNOR Gater looks set to play in the FA Cup second round this weekend after Worcester City agreed to extend his loan deal at Stourbridge.

The new agreement will see the 24-year-old midfielder remain at the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League side until January 2.

It also means Gater will be available to play in Stourbridge’s FA Cup clash against League One outfit Northampton Town at the War Memorial Ground on Sunday (2pm).

Since joining the Glassboys last month, Gater has been able to get game-time as he battles back to full fitness after returning from a toe injury which kept him out of action for the first two months of the season.

Manager Carl Heeley said City can recall the centre midfielder with 24 hours notice once he has competed 28 days of the deal.

However, he insisted he was “happy” to let Gater, who was part of City’s memorable FA Cup run to the second round in 2014, add to his five appearances at Stourbridge.

“Connor is a very good player and he has had a frustrating time with injury, so it’s been about getting him minutes under his belt,” Heeley said.

“He is also getting the opportunity to be available for selection for Stourbridge game against Northampton. That was a consideration as well for the player and the two clubs.”

Goalkeeper Nick Draper is on loan at Bedworth United, while winger Nathan Olukanmi and centre-back Kieron Morris are on dual registration deals at Leamington and Stafford Rangers respectively.

And Heeley appears to be content with the trio continuing to play football away from Worcester.

“We can only select 16 players and we have got 16 players available, so I am happy with what we have got at the moment,” he added.