Frustrated boss calls for back-up

Smith, pictured, has been left frustrated with the chances that have gone begging in City’s first two league games, including a crucial missed penalty.

Last Saturday they drew 2-2 at Oxford City, with both sides wasting spot kicks. On Monday, they went down 1-0 at home to Hemel Hempstead Town, again missing a penalty while failing to create clear-cut chances.

Smith wants a seasoned striker to give support to Billy Bricknell. While youngster Hugo Skepelhorn has done well, he is still learning and the City manager believes someone with more experience is urgently needed.

"We're working on that,” said Smith. “If we can do that it will be a big plus for us and it will be someone who knows this level."

City have signed Halstead Town striker Jonah Gosling while MK Dons defender Harry Hickford has returned on loan to the Melbourne Stadium after leaving the club last season.

Smith also has a problem to solve at right-back with Rob Girdlestone sidelined with a broken nose for the next two weeks.