NEW striker Paul Robinson is determined to prove to York City that he is worth a long-term contract.

Robinson has signed for the Minstermen on a month-to-month basis after reaching a financial settlement with Tranmere Rovers over the last seven months of his contract.

The 20-year-old forward travelled to Northwich Victoria with his new team-mates today and, while he was not expected to play any part in the match, he is hoping to force his way into the first-team reckoning as soon as possible.

He said: "It's a short-term deal to start off with so I have got to earn myself a contract and, to do that, I have got to get myself in the team."

Having netted twice as a trialist in three reserve outings for City - although the first match was 16 months ago - Robinson believes the key to being selected for Conference action will be continuing to shine for City's second string, starting with Wednesday's trip to Scunthorpe.

He said: "If I play for the reserves I have got to do well enough to put myself in the picture and get in the team.

"It's up to what I do on the pitch but I think I can get my fair share of goals if I get a run of games."

Robinson has left Tranmere without making an appearance for the second-placed League One outfit and has found his chances restricted this season by the form of Simon Haworth, Eugene Dadi and Calvin Zola.

But the 6ft tall forward arrives at Bootham Crescent with a glowing reference from Prenton Park boss Brian Little and no hard feelings, travelling to his old club last night to see them take on Bournemouth.

Robinson has played three times for Grimsby Town this season during a loan stay but admitted that he did find his lack of first-team opportunities at Tranmere difficult to accept, saying: "It was hard travelling with the squad and not getting a look in. It's been frustrating but I have got a chance now and hopefully I can take it.

"I got a bit of experience at Grimsby and enjoyed it but I went back to Tranmere and I'm here now. I came here for a trial last season and was unlucky with an injury but I'm glad to be back.

"Quite a lot has changed - league status for one, but I'm not bothered by that.

"I live in the North-East so it's closer to home which is ideal and I just can't wait to get back playing football again."

Caretaker boss Viv Busby will now have the luxury of choosing from five strikers for two positions with Robinson joining his fit-again namesake, now blessed by an extra initial - Paul D Robinson - Andy Bishop, Lee Nogan and Lev Yalcin as City's senior front men.

The latest addition to that strikeforce believes such competition can only be good for the club as they look to improve on a poor record in front of goal.

He said: "Bish is a good player and Robbo's obviously played at the highest level.

"Lee Nogan has also been up there so they are good players to learn from."

Updated: 11:00 Saturday, December 11, 2004