DEFENDER Tyler Weir is hoping to link up with Brisbane Premier League club Rochedale next week.

The 24-year-old is out of contract at Worcester City and keen play matches in Australia before returning to sign a new deal with the Blue and Whites.

Ledbury-based Weir has secured a VISA for his planned trip Down Under and has been looking at flights.

He is now awaiting international clearance from the Football Association.

“I am 24 years old and playing football in Australia is something I want to do," he said.

"If I don’t do it now, I might not get another chance. I had a chance to play for a different club in Australia two years ago but I didn’t take it up.

“Matt Breeze, who used to play for Worcester, is also out there and Rochedale showed an interest in taking me.

"They are fifth in the division and have big matches coming up. I am going there to play football – not a holiday.”

Ex-Hereford United defender Weir made 39 appearances for City last season.

He missed just one game prior to breaking a metatarsal in a 1-0 home loss against Bradford Park Avenue in January, and was out of action for more than two months.

“As a part-time player we don’t earn money for football during the summer, so it’s a chance to get paid too," he said.

“But if I have not gone to Australia by the end of next week, then I probably won’t go because Rochedale have only got around 14 games left. But if I do go, I will definitely be coming back in early July.

“Going to play football in Australia will be useful because I can get some game-time under my belt,” he said.

Weir has spoken to City's bosses about his planned trip to Australia.

“Hopefully, Worcester won’t sign a left-back before I come back and will also still have space in their budget," he said.

“I have spoken to Carl Heeley and we both agreed Worcester City have to look after themselves. I don't want to leave them in limbo. If all goes to plan, hopefully, I will be at Worcester City next season if they want me.”