WITH his rolled down socks, hang-dog expression and lolloping gait Steve Claridge does not fit the image of a modern day striker.

But Weymouth's player/manager has always been more about substance than style during an eventful career stretching from non-league to the Premier Division.

And if the 37-year-old starts at St George's Lane on Saturday he still has enough ability to cause problems for City's defence as his seven-goal tally for the season suggests.

City's Barry Woolley, back to fitness and form with four goals in two reserve team matches, is relishing facing the former Leicester City, Portsmouth, Birmingham City and Millwall forward.

"It will be brilliant to play against Steve but I'm sure it won't be an easy ride because last year he was still playing in the First Division and banging in the goals so he won't be a pushover," said Woolley.

However whatever problems Claridge does pose they are unlikely to be of the kind encountered when Woolley encountered former Coventry City, Chelsea and Liverpool firebrand David Speedie.

"He was a right tricky little so and so and in more ways than one," said Woolley. "I can't remember who he was playing for, it might have been Crawley but he was a good player and didn't waste much energy chasing the ball.

"Mind you when the referee wasn't looking he could do some damage in other ways too.

"He was particularly effective in a crowded penalty area where he would tread on your toes and say 'oh sorry you alright mate'.

"He was crafty but he spent more time arguing with the referee than kicking a ball."

Woolley has marked a few other famous forwards down the years including ex-Spurs and Man City ace Paul Stewart, as well as Stoke and Celtic forward Wayne Biggins.

Despite advancing years ex-pros can still be a handful, if they want to, says Woolley.

"It depends on what frame of mind they are in. If they give 100 per cent you know you are going to have your work cut out.

"But if they are there just for the money and killing time off it can be a bit easier but Claridge is a 100 per cent battler and you know if he plays he will give everything."

"It's hard to come from the pro to the semi pro game because it's not as easy as people think," added Woolley.

"People think pros will stick out but in our league there's no time to put your foot on the ball because straightaway someone is on you."