Rory Boulding is eager for a shot at filling City’s attacking shortage.

Stuart McCall hopes to get someone new in before Saturday’s home game against Accrington. Agents have already fired several names at him, with McCall ideally targeting wide players who can also operate down the middle.

City have been feeling the pinch up front with Michael Boulding, James Hanson, Peter Thorne and Leon Osborne all missing last week. Gareth Evans had to play through the pain of a foot injury in the 1-1 draw with Bournemouth.

Hanson is expected to rejoin training tomorrow but the current lack of bench back-up is McCall’s major concern.

The younger Boulding brother is keen to prove that he can cover the shortfall if given the nod.

Rory Boulding got his first action of the season at the weekend when he came on for the final seven minutes. It was only his second senior outing in 16 months with City, following a start in the final game of the last campaign at Chester-field.

Boulding said: “I’ve been desperate to play all season so I really enjoyed it. I want to take my opportunity while everyone else is out.

“I thought I might get a chance earlier on because I’d done well against Burnley in pre-season but obviously the gaffer brought in a few new faces.

“But I’ve been doing well in training and for the reserves waiting to get the opportunity. Hopefully that’s just the start.

“I’ve been here for a while and not had a chance yet so when I do get on, I’ve got to make the most of it.”

The 21-year-old had 20 league appearances under his belt before joining City from Mansfield, although 16 of them were as a substitute.

He added: “I’ve been playing in this league since I was 17 so I’m more than comfortable at this level.

“I feel I’ve definitely improved from the coaching at Bradford and become a better player. I’m stronger and a bit more experienced than before.

“I’ve stayed positive and I work as hard as I can in training so that I’m fit enough if needed in a game.

“We’re only a third of the way through the season, so hopefully I can get in and earn some more time on the pitch.”

* City’s FA Youth Cup tie against Crewe will be rearranged for next week.

The second-round clash was called off at teatime yesterday after a deluge left the pitch covered in standing water.

The winners will face cup holders Arsenal.