STUDLEY player-coach Trevor Whittington says he is happy to fill in when needed for the Bees until the end of the season because of continuing knee trouble.

The BKL coach, who took charge of the side along with veteran forward Nicky Cross for Saturday's 3-0 win over Knypersley, said he was happy to opt for a place on the bench to give Kenny Fergie a game.

"I'm back to fitness now but we have players like Gavin Barratt and Rob Powell who need a game after a couple of weeks on the bench so I'm happy to be on standby for now," he said.

"We have some suspensions coming up in a couple of weeks so I will be available to help but the lads have put together a 13 match unbeaten run so they have done well enough without me."

Saturday's win lifts Studley one point above fellow Alliance newcomers Ludlow Town with their new aim to finish as highest newcomers.

Manager Mark Chambers was set to return to guide the side for last night's trip to fifth from bottom Shifnal Town after a weekend away.

Asssistant manager John Mitchell, one of the triumvirate behind the club's purchase of the BKL ground, is on holiday.

Cross has recovered from knee trouble but is suffering from 'flu, Ian Mitchell was a slight doubt and keeper Matt Pugh was again set to make way for Martyn Lakin last night because of work commitments.

Defender Simon Redhead made a second loan appearance for Midland Combination neighbours Feckenham at the weekend but Whittington insisted it was not a permanent move.

Studley entertain relegation-haunted Oldbury United on Saturday (ko 3pm) with chairman Dave Robinson having mixed feelings about helping consign the club he used to manage to the drop.

And the club tackle Express & Star League outfit Malvern Town in the Worcestershire Senior Urn semi final on Tuesday (ko 7.30pm).

Midfielders Mark Beddowes and Mitchell are cup-tied for the replay of last year's final as the Bees continue their defence of the Trophy.