ANTHONY STRAKER said York City's offer was "too hard to turn down" as he put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the Minstermen.

The 25-year-old left-sided midfielder had been offered a new contract by the Shrimpers, having played 47 times for them last season as they made a run for the League Two play-offs.

But he said the overtures from City "made his eyes open" and he is targeting a promotion campaign with his new club.

"Southend did offer me a contract," Straker said. "It wasn't what I was looking for and York City came up with something that made my eyes open and was too hard to turn down.

"York City are going in the right direction and I just want to be part of it. Left midfielder (is my best position) - getting forward and being part of the attacking side of things but, if needs be, to be put there (defence) and willing to step up to it."

He added: "I was attracted to how they (York) finished last season, in the play-offs like Southend. It showed they have the potential to do well and hopefully they can do it again this year.

"I was at Southend for two years. I'd say my first year wasn't one of the best but I kicked on in the second and showed what I was capable of doing. Now it has come to an end and I am ready to start life at York."

Straker played for Southend in both encounters with York as the ten men Minstermen lost 2-1 with a late goal at Roots Hall and then held the Shrimpers to a 0-0 draw at home.

"It wasn't one of the easier games, I can tell you that," said the newest member of Worthington's squad. "It was good to come up against them in opposition and helped make my mind up to come here as a signing.

"The home one was very hard and travelling away to any game is difficult and York didn't make it easy. York was where I wanted to go. It seems like the place to be and that's why I put pen to paper."

He added: "My family will be coming with me to live in York and make this home. I've heard it is a nice city to live in. When you come you want to live on the doorstep of where you are working. Commuting can be a bit stressful sometimes and, hopefully, I can get to know the city.

"I know a few of the boys here who have put in a good word and made things easier. I know Lewis Montrose. He had a few good things to say."