CHESTER CITY hope to conclude the loan signing of the Leyton Orient striker Lee Steele later today in time for the player to be included in the squad to face Stockport County in tonight's Johnstone's Paint Trophy second round match.

If the transaction is finalised today, City will have beaten off competition from Shrewsbury Town and Bury, in acquiring the services of the 32-year-old Liverpudlian.

Chester chairman Stephen Vaughan said: "All the forms have been completed and we are now seeking permission from the Football League under the new emergency loan procedures.

"Lee is the sort of exciting striker that we have been chasing for quite a while. It has been a long and drawn out transaction, but thankfully we are now in sight of the finishing line."

Vaughan also revealed that Chester were chasing a right-sided winger. "We have had discussions with an experienced midfield player, and if that deal is sanctioned it is possible that he will be available for the Stockport game."

City will make changes for tonight's cup clash with midfielder Roberto Martinez suspended following his dismissal at Barnet on Saturday.

Jamie Hand could return following suspension, but central defender Ashley Westwood is still troubled by a hamstring injury, and may miss out.

Meanwhile, it is likely that City's FA Cup first round tie at Southern League side Clevedon Town will be made all-ticket. The South Western club are expected to make an announcement later today, after consultations with the local police force.

CHESTER CITY (from): Danby, Palethorpe, Marples, Artell, Bolland, Allen, Linwood, West-wood, Sandwith, Vaughan, Hand, Bennett, Wilson, Rutherford, Blundell, Steele, Walters, Holroyd, Cadwallader.