ALVECHURCH manager Ian Long is hoping to complete a deal with full back Chris Whittingham in time to face Redditch United this Friday night in a friendly fixture at Lye Meadow (7.45pm).

Whittingham has impressed after spending pre-season with the Church. He was previously at Southern League side Shortwood United in Gloucestershire while studying at nearby Hartpury College.

Boss Long has been pleased with Whittingham's progress and confirmed: "He's Solihull based but had previously been living in student accommodation. He's got lots of energy and gets forward. He should have scored against Stourbridge but forced a great save from goalkeeper Matt Gould."

But Long has been forced to release left back Brett Lloyd following trials after the defender left Cadbury's last season.

Long added: "He's very fit and gets up and down the pitch really well. I couldn't really offer Brett anything because I've already got Zack Foster and Babucar Sauane who can play in that position.

"But I'm trying to get him fixed up with a club.

"If anyone is interested in a left back, they should get in touch with me."

The Church went onto defeat Northern Premier League side Stourbridge 2-1 courtesy of a couple of Tom Turton penalties.

Long's spirits have been lifted with the news that both Andy Parsons and Jack Cresswell are on their way back to full fitness.