A versatile defender-cum-midfielder tops boss Rob Smith’s shopping list as he bids to strengthen his injury-ravaged AFC Telford United squad.

The Bucks chief also hopes to complete the loan of Shrewsbury left-back James Meredith for the rest of the season at training tonight as he steps up his recruitment drive.

Smith has been moved to look for new faces due to a lengthy injury list that features defenders Stuart Whitehead (medial ligaments), Indy Khela (hamstring) and Lee Vaughan (ankle), midfielders Carl Rodgers (groin) and Steve Jagielka (medial ligaments), and striker Terry Fearns (groin).

He does not expect to have anybody in ahead of Saturday’s FA Trophy second round tie at home to Hayes & Yeading, but admits the search is under way.

“We’re going to have a roll call tonight and see how Lee Vaughan and Indy Khela are doing and if they have any chance for this weekend,” he said.

“Behind the scenes we are actively looking for at least one player and we have a few things in the pipeline.

“I’m looking for a centre-half/midfielder, and if we could get someone who can play in both areas that would be ideal.

“We’ll probably look at making a permanent signing, but it has to be someone who is decent and we are in the very early stages.”

Smith’s options on Saturday are further reduced, with Danny Edwards cup-tied. Midfielder Emeka Nwadike has also been cup-tied while on loan at Hinckley, and the same applies to Jarred Stevens and Gary Fitzpatrick at Rushall.

Smith also revealed young striker Stevens was unlikely to feature for the Bucks again, having indicated his desire to stay at Rushall.

“Jarred doesn’t really want to come back,” he said. “I’m slightly disappointed really – he had the chance to come down and be on the bench at Southend (in the FA Cup) but he didn’t want to, and that’s his choice.”

By Chris Hudson