FORMER West Brom and Grimsby midfielder Kevin Donovan has agreed to sign a one-year deal at York City.

Donovan, 32, joined the Minstermen in March on a non-contract basis but failed to make an appearance for the Bootham Crescent club due to personal reasons.

He was released by Rochdale before arriving at Bootham Crescent and is now looking to get his career back on track.

City player-boss Chris Brass said: "It's a shame nobody got to see what Kevin's capable of last season when he could not play because of family circumstances. He's a good player and a right-winger which is a position we found hard to fill last season.

"Like Steve Davis, he's another experienced player who's had success and that will help the kids."

Ex-Burnley and Luton defender Davis, 35, became Brass' first summer signing on Tuesday, agreeing a two-year deal that will also involve coaching duties.

Donovan's signing means a move for former City hero Jon McCarthy is now unlikely.

McCarthy indicated to fans at Tuesday night's Harrogate Minstermen meeting that he could leave UniBond League champions Hucknall Town for a Conference club this summer.

Updated: 14:39 Wednesday, June 02, 2004