AFC Telford boss Steve Kittrick closing in on latest target

Kittrick, who last week brought in promising full-back Kyle Dixon on loan from League One Notts County, has made it a priority to plug the Bucks' porous defence in the January market.

And the former Guiseley chief, whose team have the worst defence in the Conference Premier, is understood to be very close to making another quality addition at the back.

The Bucks triumphed 2-1 at Aldershot on Sunday – their first win under Kittrick, who is eyeing up to five further recruits.

And he is adamant that whoever comes in this month must have the stomach for a fierce battle against the drop.

He said: "The big thing is they have got to be right for Telford and they have got to be hungry.

"They have got to want to get us out of the situation we are in and prove themselves at this level."

Full-back is known to be a priority area for strengthening following the recent losses of Ryan Higgins and Kyle Brownhill.

Right-back Higgins completed his move to league rivals Chester on Saturday while left-back Brownhill was recalled from his loan by parent club Hyde.

Kittrick has so far made two signings,

with former Bradford Park Avenue midfielder Jack Rea joining Dixon.

But neither will be available for this Saturday's trip to Conference North AFC Fylde in the FA Trophy second round as they are cup-tied.

Josh Hancock is also a doubt through a gash to the knee. Kittrick said: "He's had nine stitches but I don't know yet if it is just a cosmetic injury."

Centre-back Neill Byrne should be fine despite an ankle knock while Kristian Platt (hamstring) should return to training tonight.