NEW signing Rob Warner has promised to shore up Worcester City's defence and add an attacking impetus to their play.

The 27-year-old full-back last night completed his switch from Tamworth to St George's Lane as John Barton landed his first close season transfer target.

And Barton, who forged a career as an attacking full-back that earned him a big money move from City to Everton in the late 1970s, believes Warner is out of the same mould as a player.

"I've watched him for a few years and seen him perform very well against us during that time," said Barton.

"In addition he's had experience in the Conference and is the type of player that reminds me a bit of myself. He likes to get forward and involved in things at the top end of the pitch and can defend his goal as well.

"If you look at full backs at our level you don't see too many like that -- and we've looked at a lot."

Warner, who started his career at Hereford United, brings both Football League and Conference experience with him and Barton fought off competition from several other clubs to land the defender's signature.

Warner, who is a finance manager and lives in Kenilworth, said the time for a move fell just right.

"I finished the season quite well at Tamworth, but it was the right time for a change and a new challenge and I look at Worcester as a big club," said Warner.

"I'm a full-back, and first and foremost an attacking one at that, but I also hope to shore up the defence."

Warner's arrival is set to increase the pressure on present incumbent Allan Davies, but Barton is keen to see competition for places.

"We're turning the heat up in terms of competition and good players will revel in that," added Barton.