THE influence of new Worcester City striker Lee Hughes has been hailed by the chief of his former club, Ilkeston.

The 39-year-old Hughes started the campaign at lower-graded Ilkeston and snapped up three goals in five appearances.

The experienced front-man netted for the Derbyshire outfit against Grantham Town and Colwyn Bay before his final goal for the club in a 4-3 win over Stourbridge on August 24.

Hughes also received a red card on his debut against Skelmersdale United in the Northern Premier League Premier Division.

Ilkeston chief executive Nigel Harrop said: “Everyone at the club would like to thank Lee for his time here and helping us get off to a good start.

“We wish him well for the future and he’s always welcome back here at the New Manor Ground.”

City play one tier higher than the Robins and are also closer to Hughes’ West Midlands home.

Hughes, who turns 40 next May, has scored more than 300 goals in his career and racked up more than 700 appearances.

The striker is expected to make his Worcester debut today in the Vanarama National League North clash at high-flying Stockport County (3pm).

The former West Brom and Kidderminster Harriers hot-shot turned down an offer from National League Tranmere Rovers to link up with a City side that have made a disappointing start.

Hughes could form a new-look strike partnership with Bulgarian Nikolay Todorov, who joined Worcester on a month’s loan from Nottingham Forest.

Worcester have striker Ashley Vincent, defender Clayton McDonald and midfielder Sean Geddes all suspended for the trip to Edgeley Park, while Tristan Dunkley is unavailable.