NEW SIGNING Sam Parkin is hoping to make his experience count after checking into the Banks's Stadium today. "There are some exciting young players here," he said. "They have plenty of ability but just lack experience, so hopefully I can play my part in helping them to develop.

"It's strange that Rhys Weston and I used to play against each other regularly during our youth team days when he was at Arsenal and I was with Chelsea and now we are the elder statesmen of the side."

So what qualities will the 28 year-old former Scotland 'Future' International bring to the team? "I'll add a bit of presence to the front-line," he added. "I can link up the play and will be looking to get back on the scoresheet on a regular basis.

"I've spoken to a few clubs over the summer. It was my ambition to get a good League One club, so I am delighted to be here and I am looking forward to the season getting underway.

"It's going to be a very competitive League One this year, but there is no reason why we can't be up there. We have a great set-up here and there are some nice pre-season games coming up before the real action starts."

Parkin will get his first taste of action at the Don Valley Stadium on Saturday when we take on Rotherham United (kick-off 3.00pm).