DEFENDER Justin Thompson has committed his short-term future to Worcester City after failing in his effort to join a full-time professional club.

The Canadian international is set to play a major role at St George's Lane following an unsuccessful bid to earn a permanent deal at Scottish Division One side Dundee.

Thompson, 24, was on trial at Den's Park for the past week and previously tried to make a Football League breakthrough at Gillingham and Wrexham.

During his push for a full-time contract, the imposing former Bury centre-half made six appearances for Worcester, including last Saturday's FA Cup triumph over Bemerton Heath Harlequins.

Following the latest snub north of the border, 6ft 4in Thompson is now happy to settle down at City to earn regular first team football.

"Justin has been at Dundee, but we've been able to agree something with him," said City player-manager Andy Preece. "He will be a regular with us for the foreseeable future and that's good.

"I think he is exactly what we need and it's what I've wanted.

"Obviously, he makes us quite strong at the back. Justin has improved with each game and has been a very good replacement for Barry Woolley.

"He's got good presence, wins headers and is very difficult to get past.

"Justin's a strong lad and helps organise things with Chris Smith and Des Lyttle at the back.

"He gives us a nice balance, is equally strong with both feet and is comfortable on the ball. He's also got presence in the opposition's penalty box and gives us that aerial threat. He can score goals."

Thompson's addition to the squad has stretched the club's already-tight budget, but Preece said he is under no immediate pressure to release any players.

Preece added: "The budget is tight and we've got to have a look at things. At the moment, it's OK but we may have to soon shuffle things around."