LEE Adams admits he's having to work hard to keep his Alvechurch squad together.

The new Church boss increased his attacking options last week with the addition of Bromsgrove Sporting striker Luke Shearer.

But while Adams is keen to bring some much needed experience, he is also having to deal with clubs interested in his players.

Connor Deards looks set to ignore seven day bids from Rushall Olympic and Stafford Rangers and stay at Lye Meadow, while Sporting Khalsa have made an approach for winger Chris Rabone.

"It's tough at the moment, the job is bigger than I first thought," said Adams.

"I am obviously trying to bring in players in and we're working on that but it's also a matter of making sure we can put out a team.

"Connor has said he wants to stay at the club and we want him to get back to the way he was playing at the start of the season.

"Chris has been up and down but he's definitely got something about him."

Alvechurch's poor form continues after losing 3-1 to University of Loughborough in the Midlands Football League Premier on Saturday.

Gareth Evans had headed Alvechurch into the lead but they suffered a set back when midfielder Jack Cresswell limped off with a suspected broken hand.

Loughborough levelled before half-time and then stuck twice more after the break.

"It was a disappointing performance and I thought Loughborough deserved to win," said Adams.

"I thought Luke was very lively but we've conceded seven goals in two games so we need to defend better.

"It's a blow to lose Jack, who was playing well, and if he has to wear a cast he will be out for a while."

Alvechurch, who were set to play Stourport Swifts last night, tackle Brocton at home on Saturday (3pm ko).