EAST Thurrock United chief John Coventry has been unable to bring in any reinforcements ahead of tonight’s trip to Isthmian Premier League table-toppers Folkestone Invicta.

Coventry was hoping to attract a new striker to the club following the 1-0 win over Lewes 10 days ago.

But Coventry concedes there will be no fresh faces in his Rocks outfit.

“No-one has come in but there are lots of irons in the fire,” said Coventry.

“I have asked the questions but not been able to bring anyone in yet.

“Ideally, I would like one or two players to come in from the league above.

“But, in the next three or four weeks, we could potentially have two rounds of the FA Trophy.

“Because of that, I need players who are not cup tied or to get players in from clubs who are not concerned if they play for us in cup competitions.

“That narrows my options further, but I am doing my best to give myself more options.”

However, Coventry will be unable to call upon Billy Crook after the experienced midfielder returned to National League South side Dartford last week.

“I was quite surprised to see Billy go back to Dartford,” added Coventry, who signed Crook at start of the season on a dual-registration deal with the Kent club.

“Andy Pugh had already gone back there and I had been watching Dartford very closely as they waited to appoint a new manager.

“I didn’t see it coming but Steve King has gone in as their new manager and he obviously wants everyone who is registered on their books back at the club so that he can have a look at them.

“It’s a shame because Billy was just starting to find some form.”

But Coventry is relishing tonight’s clash with Folkestone.

“With the lack of strength in depth we have in the squad, it was a good time to have a break,” admitted Coventry.

“I went to watch Folkestone as they lost to Bognor Regis Town.

“It’s a large pitch, so the players will be able to express themselves.”