JOE Bates has agreed terms for a return to Worcester City.

Manager John Snape revealed the former youth prospect had been in talks over a comeback with the moved confirmed this afternoon.

Striker Bates is City’s third new arrival and 11th committed player of the summer.

He bagged 14 goals for bottom club Bishop’s Cleeve in Southern League West last season having initially committed to City.

“Joe left under a bit of a cloud but was always dual registered,” said Snape.

“He wanted to play and had the chance to do so at a higher level with Bishop’s Cleeve. He is aware of the depth of the squad and has fell into line with regard to the finances.

“I am happy to announce he will be back in pre-season having been offered terms based on him being in the 16-man squad.”

WORCESTER CITY 2018-19

RETAINED

Goalkeeper: Matt Gwynne

Defenders: Jamie Smith, Jordan Stoddart

Midfielders: Mat Birley, Nathan Hayward

Strikers: Dave Reynolds, Nick Turton, James Baldwin

COMING IN

Robbie Bunn (midfielder, Littleton)

Lewis Gwilliams (goalkeeper, Alvechurch)

Joe Bates (striker, Bishop’s Cleeve)

GOING OUT

Brad Birch (midfielder, Stourbridge)

Yannick Gomes (midfielder, unknown)

Alex Tomkinson (winger, Barwell)

Josh Harris-James (winger, unknown)

Benji Robinson (striker, unknown)

Mark Danks (striker, Black Country Rangers)

Joel Ambalu (striker, unknown)