YORK City have today sealed a double swoop – with striker James Gray and experienced stopper Adam Bartlett signing permanent deals.

Already at Bootham Crescent on loan from Torquay United, Gray has agreed a contract until the end of the season.

City boss Martin Gray has also added another goalkeeper to his squad, snapping up Bartlett from his former club for an undisclosed fee.

The 31-year-old stopper has signed a contract until summer 2019 and will go straight into the Minstermen squad for Saturday's National North clash at Alfreton Town.

Former Newcastle United trainee Bartlett said: "When the opportunity arose to work with Martin Gray again, I jumped at it. I think he's going to bring success to York City and the fact that he wants me to be a part of it is great.

"I am looking forward to the challenge ahead. Hopefully, with a little bit of luck and some good performances along the way, we will be where we want to be come the end of the season."

Former Northern Ireland under-21 international Gray initially joined on a one-month deal last month.

He remarked: "As soon as I came through the door on loan, I was working towards it becoming permanent. I put a bit of pressure on myself but, now I know I am here until the end of the season, I think I can kick on.

"I've played in the league for numerous clubs but the set-up here is probably the best. Everything is in the right direction for the club to go one way and that's why I am staying on board."

City sporting director Dave Penney believes the additional options at both ends of the field will strengthen the manager's hand.

He said: "We like James and he gives us options. It's great to have four out-and-out strikers now so, when the front two tire, you can put fresh legs on and see a game out.

"A month ago we would have lost at the weekend because we didn't have the bodies or the fresh legs to put on. We feel James will be of great benefit to the squad between now and the end of the season.

"We feel, in certain areas, people have been 'guaranteed' a place but now we have added competition for places. Hopefully, this will make us stronger as a squad."

Penney added: "We have been looking around for a goalkeeper and, deep down, Martin always wanted Adam. He has worked with him before, he has great respect for him, and he trusts him.

"Adam doesn't come free, we have had to pay a transfer fee, but the chairman has once again backed the manager and we are delighted to bring him in."