Matt Elliott steps up player search

Stafford Rangers manager Matt Elliott will step up his search for new signings this week to aid his side's fight against relegation from the Blue Square North.

Elliott used last night's friendly against the under-23 side of the army's Football Association to cast his eye over Dean Clarke, who is on trial after being recommended by Rangers midfielder Levi Reid.

Clarke has played for the youth set-ups of both Wolves and Walsall and was also on Worcester's books, described by the Rangers boss as a "little powerhouse" of a right winger.

But the manager is also looking outside of Marston Road for additions to the squad and is hopeful of new faces before Saturday's home game against league leaders Nuneaton.

The team are already two players down for the match, as Reid and captain Craig McAughtrie are suspended with the skipper also sitting out next Tuesday's game at Guiseley.

And Elliott has confirmed the race is on to get their places covered.

He said: "In the immediate future, I need cover in central midfield and defence, they are my emergency areas at the moment.

"We are having a look at making one or two signings."

Elliott brought in Marco Adaggio from relegation rivals Redditch for a second spell at the club last week, playing him on the right wing in Saturday's 3-2 defeat at Blyth Spartans.

The manager hopes to play him as a striker in the long run but believes his ability to play in a number of positions will come in handy.

He said: "Marco has had limited chances whenever he has been of late so he has come here a bit frustrated, wanting to play regularly and make an impact in this league.

"He's a young, fit, strong lad and I have brought him in to play centrally, if possible, but his versatility gives up options.

"I am delighted to have him on board."