Boss Andy Sinton is on the verge of a late raid for a new defender ahead of AFC Telford United’s trip to Harrogate tomorrow.

The Bucks boss is eager to bring in added cover, with Liam Murray still struggling with a rib injury.

That has left skipper Shane Killock and the experienced Stuart Whitehead as the only recognised centre-backs going into a busy period of Blue Square Bet North games that includes clashes with promotion rivals Alfreton and Guiseley.

“I’m still looking to move on someone and something could happen later today,” Sinton revealed.

“I’ve seen quite a few games this week that have brought different people into the equation, and there have been a lot of phone calls back and forth over the last few days.

“We are close and I could certainly bring one in just by picking up the phone – but I have a few things to weigh up.”

Keeper Aaron McCarey trained with Telford last night for the first time since making his loan switch from Wolves and could now be set for a debut at Harrogate.

Sinton has to make a change between the posts as regular No 1 Ryan Young starts a four-game ban and must decide between regular understudy Daniel Platt and the new boy.

“McCarey came in last night and looked good,” said the Bucks chief. “He’s a big, strong lad and he’s a Premier League reserve keeper so he must be decent.”

Telford are making their second trip to the Yorkshire club this season, an Adam Proudlock hat-trick having sealed a 3-0 win in the FA Trophy in December.

Sinton expects tomorrow to be closer but is boosted by the return to fitness of midfielder Stefan Bailey.

By Chris Hudson