WORCESTER City’s squad will begin to shape from next week when manager John Snape stages a series of review meetings with his players.

The City boss confirmed talks had started with potential recruits and a smattering of his current crop but stated anyone wishing to stay would “have to play ball” over finances.

It is understood the homeless club's hierarchy has reined in spending in a bid to balance the books, although Snape politely declined to comment directly on his provision for 2018-19.

But despite having to watch the pennies, City still hope to keep hold of their leading lights and push for promotion from the Midland Football League.

“We have set player targets and held preliminary talks with some but until I sit down face to face with the current squad, I would not want to comment on the future of any individuals,” said Snape.

“What I can say is we are looking to retain the nucleus but they will have to play ball. The budget is what it is and we will stay within what is comfortable for the board.

“We will pick our squad and decide on its size in line with that while trying to win the Midland Football League and promotion.

“We have arranged some review meetings for next week and I am hoping to confirm who will be with us for next season in the coming weeks.”

City return for pre-season training on Wednesday, June 27 ahead of kicking off a programme of six friendly matches that will see under-21 prospects merged in with the senior team.

There is one blank space on the calendar with a home clash against Stourbridge and a trip to Redditch United on the list.

“The friendlies will see a mix of the first-team and under-21s taking part so we can see enough of everyone,” Snape added.

“We wanted to get the boys back early to build on our first season at this level, ensure our fitness is right and that the shape of the team is good.

“It was always going to be difficult last summer but we did well and made a bright start. This time, the year we under our belts should help as we look to hit the ground running.”

The pre-season schedule begins on Saturday, July 7 with two matches at Malvern Town and Dudley Town prior to trips to Shawbury United, Redditch and Cradley Town.

There is space for a home fixture at the Victoria Ground, Bromsgrove on Saturday, July 28 before Stourbridge visit three days later.

SCHEDULE: Saturday, July 7 Malvern Town FC (a) and Dudley Town (a) both 3pm, Saturday, July 14 Shawbury United (a) 3pm, Saturday, July 21 Redditch United (a) 3pm, Tuesday, July 24 Cradley Town (a) 7:45pm, Tuesday, July 31 Stourbridge FC (h) 7:45pm.