DIDCOT Town player-manager Andy Ballard is looking to bring in up to three new players ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Evo-Stik Southern League Division 1 South & West leaders Hereford.

Ballard has lined up loan moves for two Reading midfielders, as well as a permanent signing from a local club – believed to be Kidlington forward Louis Joyce.

The Railwaymen lost captain Luke Carnell to Banbury United earlier this week and Ballard admitted the news had come as a blow.

“It’s really bad news for us,” he said.

“Luke is a great player and a good friend and it’s a real shame he’s decided to leave us, but he goes with our best wishes.

“You never want to lose your captain, but he’s been ready to play at a higher level for a while now.”

Defender Sam Elkins is available for selection and Alex Woodhouse, Oli Thomas and Taylor Janes also return, while Ballard is back from a four-match suspension.

But Ryan Barney and Jack Longford (both knee) are out.

Carnell made his Banbury debut in Tuesday’s 2-1 win over Chippenham Town and is in line to feature again as they host Frome Town in the Premier Division.

Manager Mike Ford, who again has a full squad to choose from, was delighted with the new arrival.

He said: “Luke is a fantastic addition to the team and a great lad.

“He’s a long-term addition and a player I think can help move the club forward.”

TOMORROW’S SQUADS

Didcot Tn (v Hereford, away): from Bedwell, Organ, Barder, Ballard, Collins, Keeble, Whitehead, Graham, Powell, Tanner, Lovegrove, Woodhouse, Thomas, Janes, Beer, Mulvany, Elkins.

Banbury Utd (v Frome Tn, home): from Harding, Gunn, White, Nash, Odhiambo, Carnell, Westbrook, Martin, Bell, Browne, Self, McEachran, Blackstock, Johnson, Sambrook, Rimmer, Davies, Jeacock, McDonagh.