ALVECHURCH boss Ian Long may be forced to find another central defender following injuries to Andy Parsons and Jamie Willetts.

Parsons has been struggling to shake-off a long time injury while Willetts suffered a knock during Saturday's 4-2 friendly win over Paget Rangers on Boldmere St Michaels' astro turf pitch.

It leaves Long with only one fit central defender in Ashley Carter and the Church boss claimed: "If Andy Parsons has a reaction to his injury, I'll have to bring in another centre half or we'd be left a bit exposed."

The Church attracted a crowd of 441 for their 1-0 win over Bromsgrove Sporting and they'll be looking for another bumper turnout on Saturday when they host Stourbridge at Lye Meadow.

Church open their Northern Premier League campaign on August 12 when they entertain Leek Town before travelling to Gresley Rovers the following Tuesday.

They also await the winners of Atherstone v Hanley Town in the FA Cup which takes place on August 19.

Long has also agreed to bring back Mitch Botfield who last featured for him at Tividale.

Botfield is currently in the USA on a scholarship and doesn't return home until August 12.

Long claimed: "Mitch looked in good shape the last time I saw him. He already knows a number of players from his time with me at Tividale and will be a good addition to the squad."