DAVID Holdsworth today insisted he will be patient in completing Mansfield Town's strike force after missing out on Justin Richards and Michael Rankine.

The Stags boss was in the hunt for both hitmen, who have joined League Two Cheltenham and Blue Square rivals York City respectively.

Holdsworth says there are still plenty of other players who would be ideal in joining Rob Duffy, Daryl Clare and Jake Speight in the fight for starting places at Field Mill.

And with most of his squad now in place for the new campaign, he will take his time in finding the right candidate.

"The two lads were among a dozen targets because they are the type of player I like," said Holdsworth.

"With Richards, if he was going to sign for any club in the Conference then it would have been us.

"But he has got a good move and I wish him all the best.

"Rankine was another player who I liked but I wish him well at York.

"I'm very happy with the forward line I have and I will take my time to add to it.

"I am seeing three centre forwards this week, but there is no reason to rush in."

Holdsworth is happy with the variety of attacker available to him with Louis Briscoe and teenager Conor Higginson also available to operate there.

But he still believes another option is vital over the course of a long season in which the Stags hope to be challenging for a play-off place.

Holdsworth said: "I have got plenty of pace, height and power, now I want to get the quality level that will make a bit of difference."

Holdsworth is also on the look-out for a 'forward-thinking' midfield player.