JAMES Vaughan has revealed he had decided to join City a few weeks ago.

The former Premier League frontman was yesterday unveiled as the ninth recruit of an increasingly-hectic summer for Gary Bowyer.

Vaughan has committed to playing in the bottom tier for the first time in his career after signing a three-year contract.

League One new boys Tranmere were understood to have come in with a counter offer for the 30-year-old since City first made contact and there was believed to be other interest.

But there was never any danger of City being drawn into a potential bidding war because Vaughan’s mind was already made up and a deal agreed.

He said: “From the minute I spoke to the manager, I had a great feeling about the place and I just wanted to get it done.

“It’s been in my mind for a couple of weeks now.

“I’ve been away on holiday with the family. That’s the only reason it’s been delayed.

“I’ve been looking forward to it for a few weeks and I’m glad to get it finally signed.”

Vaughan will be keen to get going again after a frustrating loan spell at Portsmouth in the second half of last season.

Kenny Jackett took him from Wigan on January deadline day to strengthen Pompey’s League One promotion push but then surprisingly never gave him a chance.

Vaughan found himself in a bit-part role on the south coast and started only two games, making 11 appearances in all without scoring.

His best performance was his last when he came off the bench and put himself about for the final quarter of the play-off semi-final second leg against Sunderland at Fratton Park.

After starting the last two campaigns in the Championship, Vaughan has no qualms about his first taste of life in the fourth tier as he looks to return to regular involvement.

He added: “I’ve been around and seen most things in football.

“I don’t feel like I’m joining a League Two team. I know that’s the position we are in now but the long-term contract sees me wanting to build something with the club.

“I’m going to invest a lot of time and effort into it and be part of something special.

“I’ve known the manager from afar for a long time. He’s tried to sign me before and he’s always been someone I’d have enjoyed playing for.

“I’m really looking forward to getting that opportunity now.”