WORCESTER City manager John Snape has urged enigma James Baldwin to unleash his potential after agreeing to retain the frontrunner.

The flexible 21-year-old attacker, signed from Bishop’s Cleeve last summer, made 16 starts and 26 substitute appearances during his maiden campaign in blue and white, scoring seven goals.

Snape acknowledged that had been down to Baldwin’s unpredictable nature and vowed to do his utmost to bring out his best.

“Balders had what you could call an indifferent season,” said Snape.

“There were many highs and lows. He had spells on the bench but to his credit he never missed training, was punctual and willing to learn.

“Perhaps a bit of extra fitness and old-fashioned desire would have got him a few more starts. That’s something we are going to work on together.

“The lad is a talent. When he’s up for it he has amazing feet and can be unplayable but on the other side of that, there are times you might as well take him straight off the pitch.

“Getting a level of consistency is something we will work on with James through pre-season.

“He is definitely a character and an entertainer, when he is on it he can change a game. Endurance will be the key to him making the most of his attributes.”

Negotiations continue with a smattering of senior stars on the back of Baldwin joining Jamie Smith, new player-coach Mat Birley, Jordan Stoddart, Nick Turton and 30-goal top scorer Dave Reynolds in agreeing terms.

But Snape was also keen to highlight City’s need to develop the emerging talents, some of which impressed while gaining their senior breakthroughs last term.

The likes of Riley Keasey and Ethan Moran made an impact when called upon with goalkeepers Sean Dayus and Jadyn Mundle showing enough to give the boss food for thought.

Worcester’s firepower could also receive a boost with Snape revealing striker Aaron Brett is closing in on a recovery from long-term injury and plans to run the rule over fellow hotshot Josh Willis.

“There is an awful lot of talent in the under-21s with Bam Bam (Brett) hopefully back fit and Josh Willis set to step up during pre-season,” added Snape.

“There is enough talent coming through, the lads we have seen already form only the tip of the iceberg.

“A lot will be determined by the maturity of the senior players who have had a year at this level. Their influence will be important when bringing through the youngsters.

“It works the other way as well, though. The enthusiasm the young lads bring is infectious for the senior players. We hope the balance will work well.”