WITH just three weeks to go until the start of the Nationwide Conference season, Hereford United boss Graham Turner is still to agree terms with a goalkeeping replacement for Matt Baker.

"We're hopeful that something will be sorted out by the weekend but we've been in negotiations with one particular player for nearly a fortnight now and there comes a time when you have to move on to someone else," said the Bulls chief.

Turner is, however, hopeful of adding 33-year-old midfielder Graham Hyde to his squad.

The former Sheffield Wednesday, Birmingham City and Bristol Rovers man has been training with the Bulls with a view to a permanent signing.

Hereford got their pre-season programme underway with a convincing 4-0 win over Ludlow Town at the Coors Stadium on Monday.

"There were some good aspects to the performance with some good passing and movement," said Turner. "Our finishing wasn't all that bright, but we've yet to do a session on that."

In the first half, Hereford cut through the home midfield and defence at will but found the net just twice. Andy Tretton timed his run perfectly to power home a header from Danny Williams' corner and five minutes before the break Simon Travis provided a left-wing cross for David Brown to head home.

In the second period, with substitutes coming and going on both sides, free-flowing football was less easy to find but Hereford still managed a couple more goals.

Youngster Andy Williams set up newcomer Craig Stanley for the third and the former Telford man's corner was headed in by Tom Smith five minutes later.

Hereford continue their pre-season programme on Saturday when Swansea City visit Edgar Street, kick-off 3pm. Everyone, including season-ticket holders, must pay at the gate.

Skipper Tony James and striker Danny Carey-Bertram may figure after being out with injuries.

l United's Conference away fixture with Accrington Stanley has been moved from October 9 to Monday, October 11 for Sky TV coverage.