RETURNING striker Steven Craig looks set to lead the line in Worcester City’s crunch clash at rock-bottom Altrincham today (3pm).

Caretaker boss John Snape held “serious” talks with Craig over his future this week after his loan deal at Stafford Rangers ended.

The 36-year-old frontman has netted just once in 10 appearances for City and failed to score in three games for Stafford.

But with City light on options up front following the departures of Lee Hughes and Colby Bishop Snape has challenged Craig to fire his struggling side to safety in National League North.

“Steven is back from his loan and will definitely be involved,” Snape said.

“He is a forward who we would like to use in the coming weeks and let’s hope he scores the goals to get us going again.

“Steven in his own words said he has got something to prove and let’s hope for everyone at the club we can both work together and get some points on the board.”

City slipped into the bottom three after losing 2-1 to FC Halifax Town last Saturday.

They are on a run of 13 matches without a league win and have only scored four goals in their last 10 games.

Winger Chekaine Steele could provide City with a further attacking threat after overcoming a hamstring strain.

Full-back Tyler Weir is banned for one game after his red card against Halifax.

But defenders Graham Hutchison (knee), James Chambers (thigh) and Andy Gallinagh (neck) could all be back from injury.

Despite having to put all the squad up for transfer Snape admitted he had not received any inquiries from clubs this week.

But he instead strengthened his team with the re-signing of experienced keeper Nathan Vaughan who is expected to replace young loanee Ethan Ross in goal.

“The club have agreed to sign Nathan on a non-contract basis from now until the end of the season,” Snape explained.

“He will compete for the number one jersey with Ethan and I have still got Nick Draper out on loan at Mickleover Sports.

“Nathan played for Bromsgrove Sporting last Sunday and will be in contention to start for us today.”

Altrincham languish at the foot of the table 20 points adrift of safety and have registered only one league win this term.

City claimed a comfortable victory 3-0 over Alty in October and will be desperate to secure their first triumph since November.

But Snape is preparing his side for their “toughest game of the season” as the Greater Manchester outfit aim to keep any slim hopes of survival alive.

“Altrincham have put in some solid performances in the last couple of weeks and have been difficult to beat, only losing by the odd goal,” Snape said.

“I expect it to be the toughest game of the season. Altrincham are fighting for their lives and they will be looking at this match to kickstart their season.

“But we are quite confident going into the game and want to build on Saturday’s performance.

“If we can cut out our silly mistakes then we have got a good chance of winning the game.”