ANDY Preece admits he is still piecing together his strongest side for next season.

The St George's Lane boss remains unsure of his best pick as Worcester City experiment towards their opening Nationwide North clash at Kettering Town.

With three players joining Worcester this summer -- Chris Smith, Graham Hyde and Des Lyttle -- and five leaving for pastures new, Preece is using the pre-season programme to mould his perfect 11.

He will look to fine-tune his side again tonight as Worcester host local rivals Kidderminster Harriers (7.45pm).

City clinched a comfortable 3-1 victory at neighbours Malvern Town on Saturday, but they are unlikely to find it a stroll in the park against Harriers.

After falling out of the Football League last season, Stuart Watkiss' side are desperate to bounce straight back.

Striker Adam Webster (neck) and midfielder Jai Stanley (calf) are both doubts for Worcester after picking up knocks.

Competition is fierce for places in the City line-up and Preece insists his players are out to stake their claim for a regular spot.

"We are looking to improve all the time and looking at different things," said Preece. "During pre-season, we have tried to get an understanding between the players.

"There's still a number of places in the side that are up for grabs. There aren't too many places that are guaranteed for players.

"We will be looking to beat Kidderminster. It's a big game for everybody, the players and the supporters. It's a local derby and the one that our fans are looking forward to.

"They have signed a lot of experienced players. They will be very strong and eager for a result, just like us."

Preece continues to monitor the progress of striker Jimmi-Lee Jones, whose quick-fire brace gave City the edge over Malvern.

Jones is on trial, along with defenders Chad Sheppard and Danny Hodnett, and Preece admits a deal could be offered to the former Wolves man, despite assertions by City chairman Dave Boddy last week that no more summer signings will be made.

Preece said: "He (Jones) has come to train with us. We are having a look at him over the next week or so. Sometimes, people can force you to sign them if they do well. It's up to the lads to really make an impression."