CHAIRMAN Anthony Hampson believes Worcester City are laying the foundations for a club the fans can be truly proud of.

Despite the Blue and Whites being in their second season away from Worcester at Kidderminster Harriers’ Aggborough ground, they have maintained a good level of support.

Relations between fans and directors are the best they have been in a long time and the supporters’ trust continue to play a major role, including their plans for a new stadium in Worcester at Perdiswell.

With manager Carl Heeley and assistant Matt Gardiner also pledging their futures by signing new rolling contracts, Hampson is delighted with the outlook as they prepare for today’s FA Cup third qualifying round clash at Vanarama Conference North rivals Leamington (3pm).

The City chief said: “Both myself and my directors feel the chemistry that now exists at the club between all members of staff has set the foundations for a viable and successful club that, hopefully, the citizens of Worcester can be proud of and, more importantly, support.”

Hampson added: “I’m delighted at the professionalism and hard work both Carl and Matt have brought to the football management of the club.

“They have been an inspiration to our players at all levels of experience and this has definitely shone through at this early stage of the season.”

A large away contingent is expected to make the short journey to the New Windmill Ground as City aim to reach the fourth qualifying round for the third season running.

On-loan Walsall striker Jordan Murphy has been given permission to be involved at Leamington by the Saddlers.

City are without injured forward Mike Symons (ankle) and winger Tristan Dunkley (shoulder), while midfielder Dave McDermott (hamstring) and centre-half Wayne Thomas (back) are doubts.