JAMES Baldwin could be among the young guns given a chance to shine as Worcester City look to manage the minutes played by the old guard.

Tonight’s trip to Stourport Swifts (7.45pm) is the second of City’s five matches in 15 days in the Midland League Premier Division.

Elder statesmen Wayne Thomas and Lee Hughes, the scorer of eight goals in as many outings, will be among those to have their fitness considered with under 21 prospects in mind to fill spaces vacated by those promoted from the bench.

Another factor being considered by joint-bosses John Snape and Hughes is the need for certain players to gain game time, particularly on the back of just three competitive matches in the past 53 days.

“We will make any changes we need to,” said Snape.

“We have looked at some of the older players and their recovery time since Saturday.

“It is the start of a gruelling programme of games for us. The kids will be involved and anyone who is not fit will have to come out.

“That said, the lads are not made of jelly. It will be a decision for me and Lee (Hughes, joint-manager) to see who plays and potentially comes on.

“James missed out on Saturday and he could start. He needs the minutes and we feel he has the talent to make an impact when he is on it.

“A bit like Josh Sarmento, he can be hit and miss but has the potential to be a big player for us between now and the end of the season.

“We have a very good lad in Callum Harper who we want to bring through, Hamilton Chiwara is out getting some minutes at Pershore Town and Aaron Brett is recovering from his operation.

“These youngsters are the future of the club and we want them to get minutes, even if it is a tough time.

"Giving them 20 minutes here, 30 there will do no harm at all and provides an opportunity for them to stake their claims.”

Fifth-placed City head into the clash on a four-match unbeaten run in the league with cup kings Swifts suffering four Premier Division defeats in a row, including a 4-1 loss to Worcester at the Victoria Ground in November.

During that time, Stourport have scored 10 goals in three cup successes, reaching the last 16 of the FA Vase in spite of being within seven points of the relegation zone.

“Their coaching methods and the way they play should lead to an open game,” said Snape.

“They want to score goals but we came through on Saturday and will look to do so again. We will be going for all three points.”