AFC Ludlow manager Dave Cooper is poised to bolster his strike-force.

Cooper says he is hoping to have a new marksman in his line-up before Ludlow’s match against Wolves Sporting Community Reserves on January 4.

Cooper’s men are fifth in West Midlands League Division Two – seven points behind table-topping Team Dudley, who have played one more game than Ludlow.

“I am hoping to have a new striker in our side for the first game of 2014,” said Cooper.

“I have put in seven days on a forward and we will see what happens after that.

“We have shared our goals this season between a host of players.”

AFC Ludlow’s league match at Malvern Rangers last Saturday was washed out but Cooper played in goal for Leominster Town in a 4-2 win over Shobdon in the Herefordshire League Premier Division.

His players will get a run-out in an 11-a-side mini-tournament taking place at the Showtime Stadium this Saturday (January 28).

Cooper says AFC Ludlow, Ludlow Town Colts, Churchstoke and, possibly Shobdon, will be taking part in the event, which is due to start at 10.30am.

“It will be important for the lads to have a bit of practice after Christmas,” said Cooper.

“It has been a massive team effort from everyone so far this season.”

Cooper wants his side to push harder in the new year.

“We have to give a bit more if we want to get out of this league,” he said.

“January will be a massive month for us.

“We are playing Team Dudley, Penkridge Town and Wolves Sporting Community Reserves.

“When we lost the home game at Newport I thought that the title was over for us.”

He added: “Rob Boyd and Luke Hicks have done very well.

“Jack Beaumont has been very consistent and so, too, have a lot of our players.

“Liam Taylor has been excellent for us – there has not been one player who has stood us.

“Ian Havard is anther who has done very well - and is a vital player for us.”