WORCESTER City boss John Barton has conceded that Carl Heeley is unlikely to play again this season.

The 30-year-old midfielder was due to have a scan yesterday on a groin injury that forced him to be stretchered off against Boston United last week.

Barton said: "He is still in a bit of pain and discomfort, but the pain is more localised than what it was before.

"It was all around his middle region but it is now centred more in his middle groin and pelvic area.

"But I personally think he will be struggling to get anything in again this season."

Heeley missed a chunk of last season after having his cheekbone and nose broken when he was kicked in the face in an FA Cup tie at Mangotsfield.

Barton regards him as one of the most valuable members of his squad, saying: "He can come in in a variety of positions and do a job for us, and those people to a manager are worth their weight in gold.

"Carl wants to play on a regular basis and there is nothing wrong in that, but he has been more than willing on several occasions to bite on the bullet in terms of fitness and do a job for the club."

Striker Mark Owen and utility player Nathan Jukes, who are both suffering from hamstring injuries, will have their fitness assessed at training tomorrow.

Both could be fit for Saturday's home clash with Crawley Town, when victory will almost certainly ensure City's safety from relegation.

Steve Lutz and Jon Purdie are likely to figure for the Worcester's reserves in tonight's Central Conference game at Rushden and Diamonds (7.45). Kidderminster Harriers travel to Tamworth.