EXCITING winger Michael Blackwood has handed manager John Barton a massive boost by agreeing a move to St George's Lane.

The 22-year-old will make his debut for Worcester City in Saturday's opening league clash against Hastings United.

Blackwood made a number of pre-season appearances for City and Barton is backing the youngster to be a real crowd-pleaser.

The winger comes with an impressive Football League pedigree and last season made 34 appearances for Wrexham, scoring two goals.

Barton revealed he had been chasing Blackwood for a while, but with interest from League clubs, including Tranmere Rovers and Notts County, had been forced to bide his time.

Blackwood, who has signed non-contract forms, is still keen for a return to the professional game but Barton says the best way to achieve that is to put in a series of match-winning displays for City.

"We've been looking to fill that left-hand spot and when he's on top of his game he's an exciting talent," said Barton. "At the moment he's suffered the disappointment of coming out of the league but the best way to get back is by putting in some good performances.

"There is not an abundance of his type of player and Michael will give us some pace and width down the left.

"I think the supporters have seen a few glimpses of what he can do during pre-season and if we can keep him firing then he will be a huge asset to us."

Barton hopes the arrival of Blackwood will be a catalyst for his side who are looking to make a strong start to their Dr Martens Premier Division campaign.

"As a player I always liked to see quality players come to the club and I'm sure his arrival will be a boost for the other lads," he added.

Blackwood will not be among strangers in the City dressing room with former team-mate Darren Middleton a familiar face.

The duo spent two years as trainees with Premiership outfit Aston Villa before both were released.

City will hold their final training session tonight with Barton having to decide about the fitness of midfielders Pat Lyons and David Foy for Saturday.