INFLUENTIAL midfielder Richard Batchelor looks set to return as Worcester City host Chorley in Vanarama National League North today (3pm).

The 27-year-old, who arrived from Brackley Town in the summer, missed City’s 1-1 draw at FC United of Manchester last weekend with a tight thigh.

However, after coming through a training session, assistant manager John Snape said Batchelor looked in good shape.

“Richard is a big character in the dressing room and in the side and he should be available, which is a plus,” he said.

“There are a few little niggles but we don’t foresee anyone being unable to start.”

Midfielder Ebby Nelson-Addy and striker Lee Hughes are both suspended but left-back Cieron Keane is back available after serving his ban.

After two draws and three defeats, Snape believes getting the opening goal against seventh-placed Chorley could propel City to their first victory of the campaign.

“We have been guilty of missing some clear-cut chances but we have worked on our finishing and our main aim is to get the first goal,” he said.

“If we do that, it will be a massive boost for us and will hopefully stand us in good stead to win the game.”

Snape admitted this weekend would “challenge” his squad as they travel to Edgeley Park on Monday to face former Football League side Stockport County (3pm).

But he insisted his players were determined to “prove themselves” and stake their claim for a regular starting place.

“They want to play in both games and they know when we win there is a chance they will stay in the team on Monday,” he said.

“It is a tall order (against Chorley) as they are a good side but we have got a few players who want to prove themselves at this level and they are going to get that chance today.”

Snape added: “We are on our home patch where we have been exciting as we have scored goals.

“Yes, goals have gone in at the other end, especially against Gloucester which was disappointing.

“But we have prepared fully this week and hopefully we can get our first win.”