WORCESTER City boss John Barton has rounded off a busy week in the transfer market by completing the signing of veteran striker Phil Stant and securing a 12-month extension to his own contract.

Stant, who finished last season with Brighton & Hove Albion, after a managerial spell at Lincoln City, has an impressive Football League career to his name.

He scored 170 goals in 373 appearances for 13 clubs including Reading, Hereford United, Notts County, Lincoln City, Fulham, Mansfield Town, Cardiff City, Bury and Brighton -- his moves totalling more than £500,000.

Barton said they had agreed an open arrangement with the 38-year-old, but said his playing commitment could not be questioned.

"He went to great lengths to ensure everybody at the club was happy he came here," said Barton.

"In the past, Football League players dropping down to non-league have sometimes had their commitment questioned, but Phil won't fall into that trap.

"He's very experienced and both Mark Owen and Mark Shepherd can learn a lot from him."

City's directors have rewarded Barton with a new deal taking him to the end of the 2002/03 season.

When the former Everton full-back and City stalwart took over from Graham Allner in November 1999 the club were languishing in the relegation zone and looking in serious trouble.

But Barton steered them out of trouble and in his first full season captured the Dr Martens League Cup and guided City to eighth spot.

"I've enjoyed my time since I returned to the club and don't see any reason not to extend it and am delighted to do so," said Barton.