Lashenko is keen to add to his squad

BRISTOL Manor Farm manager Lee Lashenko hopes to complete the signing of defender Josh Jones from Larkhall Athletic in time for today’s game.

Lashenko is planning to speak to Jones as the seven days’ notice of approach comes into force and, if those talks go well, he will be looking to bring Jones straight into the squad for the match at home to Barnstaple.

“Josh is a player who I have been following since his days in the Somerset County League, then into the Western League with Cribbs and more recently with Larkhall Athletic in the Southern League,” said Lashenko.

“He is a powerful central defender with a good temperament and someone I would like in our team. He has already made a lot of progress, but I think he can progress further with us.”

Larkhall, who are managed by former Bristol Rovers player and manager Phil Bater, are just above Manor Farm in 14th place in Division One South.

“I know Josh is already at a good club working under Phil, so it will be hard to persuade him to leave, but I will be trying my best,” added Lashenko. “As far as I am concerned, he ticks all the boxes.”

Like Manor Farm, leaders Yate also face Devon opposition, with a trip to Bideford on the menu for the Lodge Road side.

Title rivals Blackfield & Langley have a home game against lowly Fleet, while in-form Cirencester have a Gloucestershire derby at Cinderford.

There are also West derbies this afternoon between Melksham and Paulton, and Street and Larkhall.

None of Taunton, Salisbury and Frome have a fixture in the Premier Division South, but midtable Swindon Supermarine are at home to Staines.