WORCESTER Wolves are continuing their search for a “big man” who can give them “presence under the basket at both ends of the floor”.

Head coach Paul James said Wolves had looked at a couple of trialists but it hadn’t “worked out” and they will not be offered deals.

James admits Wolves still need to put “a couple of pieces” in place after a disappointing start to their new British Basketball League campaign.

They have lost four of their opening six matches.

Wolves are languishing eighth in table after two wins and host much-fancied Newcastle Eagles at the University of Worcester Arena on Friday (7.30pm).

Wolves are working hard on their “defensive philosophy and strategy” after shipping 102 points in last Sunday’s 23-point defeat at Cheshire Phoenix.

“We have been looking for another big man for the past few weeks,” said James.

“That’s not a secret because we feel we need to strengthen in that area.

“We need someone who is a bit of a rim protector to give us a presence under the basket at both ends of the floor. We are looking for the best suitable player.”

Wolves made wholesale changes in the summer after a mixed campaign last season and retained only Ashton Khan.

James said: “We have recruited well this year despite our record not showing it yet.

“It’s been difficult for us to find the right player but the search goes on.

“All leagues have started now and we want to bring in the right type of player – we are not just going to bring in anybody.

“We have a lot of talent and it’s just a couple of pieces we need to put in place and we will be solid.”

Newcastle, who have former Worcester player Orlan Jackman in their ranks, are second in the table, four points adrift of leaders Leicester Riders with an impressive record of six wins from seven matches.

It will be another double header weekend for Wolves, who travel to bottom-of-the-table Manchester Giants on Sunday (5pm).

Giants have lost all five of their league matches.

James continued: “We have had a couple of people in for work-outs but it hasn’t worked out for us and the search will continue.

"Until then, we will continue to work hard and work on our defensive philosophy and strategy to make sure the players understand what their responsibilities are.

"Hopefully, sooner rather than later, it will click and fall into place and then we can get flying.”