WORCESTER City have swooped to sign academy goalkeeper Dave Parton from Premier League Stoke City.

The 18-year-old arrives at St George’s Lane on an open-ended deal as cover for Tim Sandercombe, who is facing a spell on the sidelines with a knee problem.

Parton will join Marc Wright, who has started City’s last two games, and Richard Mace on the books at the Blue Square Bet North club.

Although Wright impressed against Northwich Victoria and Vaux-hall Motors, Parton could make his debut in the Boxing Day clash against Gloucester City at Cheltenham Town’s Whaddon Road.

Worcester manager Carl Heeley, whose team are also due to host Stafford Rangers on Tuesday, said: “It’s not looking good for Tim, he may have to have surgery.

“With so many games scheduled over the next six to eight weeks, we can’t gamble on just going with Marc Wright, who has done well for us, we need cover.

“He comes highly recommended and knows two of our players — Danny Glover and Tom Thorley.”

Parton is a second-year scholar at the Britannia Stadium and is part of the club’s successful under 18s set-up. He is the second Potters keeper to join City following Danzelle St Louis-Hamilton’s stint at the Lane last season.

Heeley has forged a link with Stoke academy team manager Adrian Pennock and it could have more benefit for Worcester in the future.

The City boss added: “Dave is training every day and he’s highly rated. He fits into what we are trying to do, which is bring young lads through and he will further en-hance us.

“I am grateful to Adrian, we have got a good relationship with them and there’s a possibility that further players could come to us.”