STOURBRIDGE could increase their defensive options by signing former Cheltenham Town star Gavin Caines.

The centre-back, whose career has also taken in spells at AFC Telford and Kidderminster Harriers, played for the Glassboys in Tuesday’s 2-0 friendly win at Chasetown.

Stour have been short on defensive options at times this pre-season following injuries to Jamie Oliver and Sam Smith.

Boss Gary Hackett said: “Gavin is a very experienced player and has spent a little bit of time with us.

“At the moment his fitness levels are probably a little bit down but we’ll assess things as we go along.”

Smith, who underwent a hernia operation last month, played half-an-hour off the bench on Tuesday.

Hackett has also been boosted by Paul McCone’s decision to stay at the War Memorial following his trial at Kidderminster Harriers.

McCone was offered a deal by the Blue Square Premier side but chose to remain a Glassboy and lined up for Stour last Saturday, as they retained the Worcestershire Senior Cup with a 1-0 win over Harriers at Aggborough last Saturday.

Sam Rock, inset, scored the only goal of the game.

Hackett said: “Paul is a top lad and has a great desire for football, we are delighted to have him. Whatever happens we will do our best for him.

“We know he is going to give everything for the football club.

“He will get other chances and the same goes for a lot of our young players.

“We know for him this may feel like a bit of a setback.

“But he has the right attitude. You get noticed for what you do on the football pitch.

“There are other people who don’t see it that way but Paul has a healthy appetite.”

The Glassboys head to Halesowen Town for their final pre-season friendly this Saturday.

Meanwhile, it has been confirmed the club’s opening home Southern League Premier fixture against Arlesey Town on August 18 will be played at Redditch United’s Valley Stadium.

Stour will run a coach to the game, which kicks off at 3pm, if enough fans are interested.

The cost to supporters is £5 and the departure time from the War Memorial Athletic Ground would be 1.30pm. To book contact Jim McComish on 07966 568767 after 5pm on an evening.