MAT Birley’s name has been added to Worcester City’s list of walking wounded following a hefty blow to the head. 

Ryan Mole unwittingly walloped a clearance straight into team-mate Birley during City's 2-1 defeat at Shawbury United on Saturday but the midfielder brushed off his bewilderment to return to action. 

It was not until after the match that Birley began to feel “groggy” and opted to seek attention. 

“Mat has had some medical advice and we will have to assess things ahead of Saturday,” said joint-boss John Snape. 

“It will be reviewed to see whether he can play. It happened when the ball hit him at Shawbury, he seemed okay at the time but felt quite groggy afterwards. 

“He went to get checked out and was told he would need to proceed with caution.”

Birley’s problem exacerbates City’s injury curse with Jamie Smith and Josh Sarmento both withdrawn twice during the past three matches.

Captain Brad Birch is recovering from an ankle complaint initially suffered during the FA Vase victory at Boldmere three weeks ago, while striker Mark Danks begins his three-match ban.

Meanwhile, Snape hopes to close in on a new signing in time for Saturday’s home clash with South Normanton Athletic (3pm). 

“Someone has been highlighted, he is a target but we will have to see what pans out,” he added.