SEAN Geddes has re-joined Worcester City in a surprise move and manager Carl Heeley believes the attacking midfielder can help “transform” his side’s fortunes next season.

The return of the former Manchester United trainee is part of a double boost for City, who have also landed tough-tackling midfielder Richard Batchelor from Brackley Town.

Geddes, 24, remains a popular figure with City fans after playing a starring role in the club’s memorable FA Cup run in 2014 as he scored twice to knock out Coventry City and netted the equaliser in their second round replay against Scunthorpe United at Aggborough.

He also hit the headlines with his rabona effort against Barrow in the FA Trophy, which was watched more than two million times around the world and finished runner-up in Sky Sports viewers’ goal of the year.

However, that was followed by a frustrating 2015-16 campaign for Geddes, who only found the net four times and was sent off twice.

After advice from his father, Geddes dropped down a division in December to sign for former club Stourbridge, where he scored two goals in 27 appearances.

But, in a shock switch, he has decided to team back up with Heeley, who wants to give him the platform to be a “20-goal” forward.

“As we all know, Sean has unbelievable ability which is way above the National League North and we were lucky enough to see those qualities during the memorable cup runs and, of course, that rabona,” Heeley said.

“After speaking with Sean, he convinced me the hunger to get back to his best form was as strong as ever. He can easily get to 20 goals a season and I want to give him that opportunity again.”

Heeley said he was also delighted to secure the signature of Batchelor from National League North rivals Brackley.

The 28-year-old, who has previously played for Leamington, Hednesford Town, Chasetown and Romulus, is considered a no nonsense, ball-winning central midfielder.

And Heeley believes those attributes were lacking in his team during the latter part of the last campaign as they finished just two points above the relegation zone.

“Both Richard and Sean are players who have the capabilities to transform the squad for the new campaign,” Heeley said.

“Richard will bring a physical presence and strong leadership quality that will compliment the excellent footballers we currently have.

“He is a player that opponents hate playing against as he is a tough competitor and he has always chipped in with his share of goals.”

The signings of Geddes and Batchelor follows the acquisition of centre-back Graham Hutchinson.

Lee Hughes, Danny Jackman, Kyle Perry, Tom Sharpe, Connor Gater, Jamie Smith and Dean Waldron have also agreed new deals to stay at Worcester.