DARLINGTON manager David Hodgson will step up his search for a new striker this week after missing out on Colin Larkin, writes Lee Hall..

Hodgson would like to add at least one new forward before the start of the season and will run the rule over several trialists next month after missing out on Mansfield forward Larkin, who has opted for a move to League One side Chesterfield.

"I had interest from the likes of Peterborough, Darlington and Chester but the chance to play for a bigger club at a higher level was too good to turn down," said Larkin.

Hodgson was also interested in Swansea City striker Paul Connor before discovering the Bishop Auckland-born player had another year to run on his contract at the White Rock Stadium and would command a fee.

While Hodgson continues to seek free agents, he could also explore the possibility of signing a young striker from a Premiership club on a season-long loan.

Read more about the Quakers here.