Kemp's Telford exit rocks Worcester City boss Dryden

Worcester City manager Richard Dryden admits the loss of captain Tom Kemp to West Midlands neighbours AFC Telford United has rocked the club.

Centre-half Kemp has gone on a free transfer - and Dryden will not be allowed to bring in a replacement.

"We're really disappointed to see him go," Dryden told BBC Hereford & Worcester. "But we've got to manage the money as best we can.

"We regret the fact Tom had to go but we have just got to try and kick on."

Dryden added: "He is an infectious character in the changing room and most people who have watched him will agree that he has done fantastically for us."

City have had more bad news over the dismissal of Shabir Khan's appeal against a seemingly harsh red card in the Blue Square South defeat at Newport County on New Year's Day.

"I cannot believe that Shab's appeal has been dismissed," said Dryden. "If you see it on the video it is an absolute shocker.

"If this one hasn't been overturned I just can't believe it.

"I haven't seen anything as outrageous in my life so I am a little bit upset about that."

City are due to resume their Blue Square South campaign on Saturday when they head to Bishops Stortford.

Coverage of Bishops Stortford v City in Sport on Saturday on BBC Hereford & Worcester (from 1400 GMT).