MARK Tucker looks set to win his fitness battle for Worcester City's FA Umbro Trophy fourth round tie at Stalybridge Celtic on Saturday.

The former Kettering Town defender played an hour of last night's Worcester Royal Infirmary Senior Cup tie with Pegasus Juniors -- his first outing for three weeks after breaking a toe.

Manager John Barton said: "There were no problems. We will see what reaction he gets today but it was a bonus for us last night. Hopefully, without counting chickens, he should be fit for Saturday."

Barton was further boosted by winger Keith Knight, midfielder Ian Cottrill and defender Kevin Willetts all training last night, and they are all expected to be fit for the weekend.

However, he has conceded that fellow defender Martin Weir is unlikely to make it after he suffered a recurrence of a rib injury at Salisbury on Saturday.

"We will know one way or another on Thursday but it is looking doubtful now," added Barton.

Meanwhile teenage striker Neil Ross, who had a trial spell with City last month, has signed an 18-month contract with First Division Stockport County.

The former Leeds United trainee, who came on as substitute in the home defeat against Newport County, impressed Stockport during a week's trial at Edgeley Park.