TIM Langford has set his sights on another striker after Dennis Bailey rejected Stourport Swifts for Stafford Rangers.

But the Swifts player-boss is unlikely to add to his squad before Saturday's first Dr Martens Western Division game of the season at Swindon Supermarine.

Langford admits his target, a former Football League forward without a club, is a "long shot".

In the meantime, he has left the door open for former Birmingham City veteran Bailey if his move to the Premier Division club does not work out.

Langford said: "Reading between the lines, it seems to have been a difficult decision for Dennis to make.

"I know he probably wants to play at a higher level but the door's left open should he think he's made the wrong choice.

"But I now have my eye on somebody else who is maybe worth giving a phone call.

"He's played in the Football League in the past out of this area but I'm not sure whether he'd want to drop to this level. It's just a long shot.

"I imagine he's been released by the non-league club he was at last year and is probably looking for another team."

But, apart from needing a forward who can hold the ball up and score goals, Langford is more than ready for the new season.

He has been delighted with pre-season as Swifts gradually grew stronger, ending in a 1-1 draw with Halesowen Town last Friday.

Langford declared: "I hope we have at least as good a season as we had last year and a good cup run to get some finances in would be nice."

Midfielder Richard Crisp has a slight calf strain but should be fit for the trip to Swindon and forward Andy Wright is added to the squad with his knee operation not until next month.

Kerry Giddings is suspended, while young defender Sean Wright heads to train with the England U-19s colleges team after the weekend clash.

Langford added: "Last time we went to Swindon we really were down to the bare bones. They will see a different side this time."

Swindon boss John Murphy is aiming for a top-half position after flirting with relegation last season.

Swifts have their first home game against Sutton Coldfield Town on Tuesday (7.45pm).