Addison in search for new faces (From Stroud News and Journal)

Addison in search for new faces

COLIN Addison has confirmed that he wants to strengthen his Forest Green squad by bringing in new players in a bid to lift Rovers away from the Nationwide Conference relegation zone -with his top priority being a striker who can end the club's current dearth of goals.

On the eve of last night's FACup first round proper replay against Exeter City at St James Park, Addison hinted that one or two new faces might soon be on their way to The Lawn, but was realistic about the club's current position.

"We have done well in the short time I have been here, but I am well aware that we have never really been out of the relegation zone," he said.

"Obviously I am always looking at ways to improve and strengthen the squad and I have been looking at players and talking to clubs with a view to doing that over the past few weeks.

"However we have a fairly large squad and a considerable wage bill, so we need to look at the situation and see how we can change things.

"Scoring goals is a problem at the moment, but a lot of other clubs have that problem and until we are in a position to do something about it we just have to get on with it."

Meanwhile, Addison is hoping to be able to select from a full squad for Saturday's trip to Nationwide Conference rivals Northwich, Victoria (3pm).

Rovers came through Saturday's Conference clash at Barnet relatively unscathed although, midfielder Alan Mcloughlin, who came on as a replacement in that game, is still struggling for full fitness after several weeks on the sidelines.

However, McLoughlin is expected to be fit for the Northwich game, as is defender Steve Jenkins, who should be available after a groin injury.

Supporters travelling to Northwich should note that the game will be played at nearby Witton Albion's ground, where Northwich have been ground-sharing while they await construction of a new stadium to replace their Drill Field ground, said to be the oldest ground in the country.

Anyone wishing to travel on the supporters club coach should contact Andy Whiting direct on 07979 635087.

For more Stroud sports news, see this week's SNJ.