SATURDAY’S substitutes are among those in line for starts when Worcester City hit the Midland Football League Cup trail at FC Stratford tonight (7.45).

Liam Lockett, James Baldwin and Josh Willis all appeared from the bench during a 1-1 draw with Lye Town with manager John Snape keen to get much-needed minutes into his younger personnel.

It is likely to be a shuffled pack with Mat Birley and Tyler Weir almost certain not to feature due to ongoing fitness concerns.

Captain Jordan Stoddart, the only City player to remain ever present so far this season, George Forsyth and Jordan Harrison could be in line for rests. New goalkeeper Sam Gilder will make his first senior start for the club.

“We have been assessing the knocks since Saturday,” said

“Sam will come in because I have not seen enough of him in game situations. He has turned out for the reserves and we want to take a look at what he has to offer.

“Beyond that we will be giving opportunities to some of the younger boys. Josh Willis did well on Saturday, Liam Lockett came on and looked back to his old self with some fantastic touches. James Baldwin probably needs another run as well.

“We have been looking at things in the cold light of day, running through some video highlights to see what the problems were on Saturday and we have to be mindful of any little niggles when picking the team.”

FC Stratford play from Stratford Town’s Knights Lane headquarters and won promotion to MFL Division Two last season.

Life has been tough since that elevation with a win and a draw to show for five matches so far. They drew 3-3 at Coventry Alvis on Saturday.

Last season City fell at the first hurdle as a changed team lost at Littleton but despite planning to field less experienced players, Snape insists he is taking seriously the chance to fight for silverware.

“We will be looking to win the game. Yes, there will be changes but this is an opportunity to fight for a trophy which is exactly what we all want to be involved with,” he said.

“We have the FA Vase coming up soon. Being in as many competitions as possible, and winning in them, can help to keep you going in the league.

“It is also a chance for lads to shine and stake their claim. It is no secret the performances have not been as we would have liked over the past couple of weeks so we want these talented youngsters to give us plenty to think about when it comes to the league.”