WORCESTER City are holding off giving Marius Ologu a new deal until he has proven his fitness in pre-season.

The Romanian attacker made eight appearances for City last season after joining from West Midlands League Premier Division side Dudley Town in January.

Manager Carl Heeley invited the 26-year-old back to training this summer having seen “glimpses” of his talent, mainly as an impact substitute.

However, he insisted Ologu, who picked up a groin injury towards the end of the campaign, must demonstrate he is in the right physical shape before beginning talks over a permanent deal.

“Marius showed glimpses last season of his ability but he wasn’t match fit,” Heeley said.

“It took him a number of weeks to get match fit and then he picked up a little niggle, which he was carrying for the last few games of the season.

“I would like to see him after he has done a full pre-season.

“That way, he will be starting on a level par with everyone else, so let’s see what his fitness levels are like before we make a decision on him.”

Heeley and former joint manager Matt Gardiner came across Ologu during a training session.

They later found out he had previously played professionally for Caransebes in Romania’s second tier.

Heeley said they had taken a “punt” on the left-footed midfielder and considered putting him on a dual-registration with another club.

But, having made cameo appearances off the bench as a substitute, Heeley said Ologu deserved an opportunity to earn a longer stay at the National League North outfit.

City host an Aston Villa first-team squad XI at Stourport Swifts' Walshes Meadow tomorrow (3pm).

Meanwhile, football returns to Aggborough tomorrow when Kidderminster Harriers host Premier League side West Bromwich Albion in a friendly (3pm).

Manager Tony Pulis will bring his charges fresh from a gruelling pre-season trip to Austria.

It will be the first chance Baggies fans will get to see their team play in the UK, while Harriers have their first home game under new manager John Eustace.

Evesham United host Stratford Town in a friendly tomorrow (2pm).