MICHAEL Rankine is returning to York City for a third spell.

The 32-year-old forward has agreed terms with the Minstermen for next season and becomes the first new signing this summer at Bootham Crescent.

Rankine was originally signed by former boss Martin Foyle in the summer of 2009 and helped the club reach that campaign’s Conference play-off final, forming a strong partnership with 37-goal marksman Richard Brodie.

He also briefly played for the club during the final weeks of Gary Mills’ first managerial spell with City when he was drafted in on loan from Aldershot in 2013.

Rankine parted company with National League Guiseley after the West Yorkshire side scored a late goal on the final day to stay up at the Minstermen’s expense.

After signing a one-year deal, the former Aldershot and Gateshead target man said: “It’s brilliant to come back and I feel like I’ve come home. I’ve got a lot of love for the club, as I’ve made clear numerous times and I’m excited for the new season and to be working with the gaffer again.”