SEVERAL Worcester City players are to be released today to free up funds for boss Andy Preece.

The St George's Lane club finished seventh in Nationwide North, but player-manager Preece believes the current squad needs strengthening to challenge for promotion next term.

Due to City's financial circumstances, Preece is forced to relinquish players before drafting in fresh faces.

It could mean a string of established names depart as Preece begins planning for his first full season in charge.

Preece said: "The big thing for me is that I've got to bring in a couple of players, but the club's budget is tight.

"With the squad that I've got and the five contracted players here, there's not a lot of room for manoeuvre. I would not be able to bring in anybody if nobody was released.

"I have to bring in a few faces to freshen up the squad. I don't think we are good enough to challenge for promotion next season with the squad that I've got."

Preece admits he wants to assemble a 21-man squad as a new 'transfer window' is set to be implemented throughout non-league next season.

"I think with the close season transfer window coming next season, we need a squad of 21 players to get through that.

"You won't be able to make any more signings until Christmas, so you need to make sure you have enough players to cover each position."