WORCESTER City right-back Curtis Smith has decided to return to Malvern Town after a month-long stint at Worcester City.

The defender made a handful of appearances in the blue and white of City but has opted to return to the HDAnywhere Community Stadium.

“It’s good to have Curtis back with us,” said Malvern Town manager, Lee Hooper.

“He has been a big part of this club for the past four or five years and is well-liked on and off-the-pitch.

“I am sure that he will slot straight back in and hit the ground running. It’s a real boost for us that he wants to be here to help in our ongoing progression.

“He has played his part in our journey so far and there is plenty more to come from him and the club.”

City boss Tim Harris expressed his disappointment at losing Smith.

"I am genuinely disappointed for Curtis and that it has not worked out," he said

"He came in with a slight hamstring injury and never really hit the ground running.

"Curtis showed glimpses of quality at times, but he feels he has not settled and it is in his best interests that he goes back to Malvern Town. I sincerely wish him all the best as he is a decent young man."

In more positive news for City, scans for Sam Whitton and Bailey Fuller have shown no broken bones following the 4-3 defeat to Walsall Wood last weekend.

They were both replaced after heavy challenges during the 90 minutes but are both expected to be involved this weekend when Worcester host second-bottom Haughmond.