A FRUSTRATING search for a new striker by Bromsgrove Rovers' manager, George Rooney, is going to be stepped up next week.

"Whoever and wherever we have tried this past week to bring in a striker - either permanently or on loan - we have been completely frustrated," said the Victoria Ground boss.

"Our league performances so far are a major concern, and we have been struggling to score goals. I can't criticise the effort but we do need a proven striker."

Rooney said there had been a list of six players they had looked at - two as possible permanent signings and the others on loan. But no one wants to risk releasing a player because the clubs we have approached, all in the division above us, are all in the FA Cup this weekend the same as we are."

Rovers are away to Hednesford Town in the second qualifying round on Saturday.

Rooney promised the club's fans that his search for a striker to fire the goals they and he crave for will be stepped up next week

Meanwhile the Rovers manager said he was pleased to see midfielder James Dyson almost back to full fitness.

"He'll get a run-out with the reserves on Thursday night and if he comes through okay that will give us more options."