STRIKER Micky Cotter has become Worcester City's third summer signing.

The 31-year-old has been snapped up from Tamworth on a free transfer, and has agreed a one-year contract.

Manager John Barton said he was delighted to have signed Cotter, who played under him at Burton Albion, and expects him to form a prolific partnership up front with Mark Owen.

"Looking back he probably formed the best striking partnership we had at Burton alongside Micky Nuttell, when they scored 40 goals between them in a season.

"He is one of those players you would rather have playing for you than against you. He is experienced, gives defenders a hard time and has a presence on the pitch that makes opponents know he is around."

Cotter joined Tamworth last summer from Burton, where he spent three years, and was previously with Gravesend, Dover and Welling.

Injuries restricted his chances at Tamworth and he turned down the offer of a new contract to come to City. Barton added: "He has come within the wage structure we are operating to and is a welcome addition to the squad."

Cotter joins goalkeeper Danny McDonnell and winger Mike Wyatt as newcomers at St George's Lane, and Barton says he is close to a fourth signing.

City are competing with King's Lynn for the player, who Barton declined to name, but he added: "He is still under contract with his current club, but we have a very good chance."

The transfer is likely to be finalised after Barton returns from a week's holiday.

City have fixed up a third pre-season friendly against Nationwide League opponents.

Walsall, newly relegated to Division Two, will visit St George's Lane on Friday, August 4 (7.45pm).

City have already arranged games with Bristol City on Wednesday, August 2 and Wolves on Monday, August 7.

n Four of Kidderminster Harriers' Nationwide Conference title-winning squad have agreed new contracts.

Defenders Adie Smith and Scott Stamps have signed two-year deals along with striker Ian Foster, while goalkeeper Tim Clarke has committed himself to Aggborough for one year.