Plus details of CITYLIVE coverage from Chelmsford

ST ALBANS City have bolstered their midfield options with the signing of former Tottenham Hotspur youngster David Hutton.

The 20-year-old made 25 appearances for Cheltenham Town in League 1 last season but was released in May after just one year with the Robins.

A Republic of Ireland youth international, Hutton had been on trial at both Grimsby Town and Leyton Orient but failed to earn a deal.

“Dave’s been training at Leyton Orient,” explained Saints’ boss Steve Castle.

“Their assistant manager (Kevin Nugent), who I know very well, rang me, he’s desperate for games, he’s being playing well and excelling in their reserves but he’s not been offered a contract at Leyton Orient so it could suit both parties really.”

Hutton is expected to go straight into the squad for tonight’s (Monday) trip to Chelmsford City.

The Saints have also signed striker Dom Petrucci on Blue Square South forms after the 23-year-old impressed in the reserve side.

Petrucci has netted nine goals for the reserves so far this season and manager Castle is keen to give him the opportunity to prove himself in the first team.

“Dom’s done what we’re desperate for people to do,” said the City boss.

“Now can he do it on the big stage? There’s only one way to find out really.”

Castle is still keen to add to his squad but says he has not yet been told whether his budget will be cut or increased following the club’s exit from the FA Cup. The Saints’ cup run, which ended at Luton Town last Saturday, should be worth in the region of �30k to the club.

“Nothing’s been said in regards to any budget cuts but at the same time we obviously do need to strengthen,” said Castle.

“At this moment in time, Drew Roberts has gone that leaves us with one less striker. We need a striker, I’ve had my eye on a couple but they’re too expensive – it’s as simple as that. We’re going to have to look at cheaper options and see where that takes us.”

St Albans City will be looking for only their second league win of the season tonight when they head to fourth placed Chelmsford City.

The Clarets suffered a defeat of their own on Saturday as they surrendered a one-goal lead at Farnborough eventually going down 3-1 in Hampshire.

Glenn Pennyfather’s side have injury worries of their own with influential midfielder Dave Rainford and striker Rob Edmans both out. The Clarets also have injury worries over John Martin, Ricky Modeste and Adam Tann though it is hoped all three will pass fitness tests ahead of the game.

For those of you unable to travel to Chelmsford tonight, you can keep up with the action via our CITYLIVE service. Coverage will begin around 7.30pm.