A WHOLE host of players have joined Bromsgrove Rovers following George Rooney's departure.

Defender Alex Winstone, a former apprentice at Wolverhampton Wanderers, has re-signed, while midfielder Kevin Jinks has also returned to the club. John Humphrey, a former Port Vale trainee, has rejoined the club while Neil Cooksey and Jamie Wills, both surplus to requirements under Rooney, are also back.

Bannister is in talks with former Worcester City and Torquay United striker Mike Griffiths, who has been released by Halesowen Town, and left back Matthew McCallum, who played for Moor Green last season. Bannister has also put in a seven day approach to Gresley Rovers for centre forward Simon Tucker.

Meanwhile, striker Peter Sutton, who joined Halesowen only a month ago, was at The Moorlands for Rovers' match against Moor Green on Saturday and Bannister is keen on his return.

"I've told him that if it doesn't work out at Halesowen then we'd like him back," Bannister said.

Birmingham City Academy player Michael Jameson has returned to St Andrews while university students Ryan Gunn, Daniel Nielson and Matt Owen were all dropped for Saturday's game. Scott Gennard and Ian Cooksey are both still out injured.

Bannister is due for talks with Burton Albion boss Nigel Clough about some of their players joining on permanent or loan deals. Mark Jones has already joined from Burton to compete with Nore Gabbidon for the goalkeeper's jersey.

"The message to all the players is that we want them to stay and be prepared to fight for their place at the club," added Bannister.