Peter Taylor has further strengthened his City squad after handing a permanent deal to midfielder David Syers.

The former Farsley man has signed on until the end of the season following an impressive trial spell.

If he proves to be a success, the club have an option to extend his contract for a further year.

Having linked up with City in July, Syers’ chances of staying had looked slim when he picked up an ankle injury in the pre-season friendly at Canvey Island.

But boss Taylor decided to take an extended look at the 22-year-old and an eye-catching display in Tuesday’s Carling Cup upset against Nottingham Forest sealed the deal.

Signed on non-contract terms prior to the tie, Syers came on as a half-time substitute and scored the vital equaliser to take the match into extra-time, setting up an eventual 2-1 win.

Initially, Taylor had intended to make a decision on his future after today’s game against Stevenage but instead decided he had seen enough.

“He’s done well,” said the City chief. “He’s given us great energy and got a good goal the other night.”

It is Syers’ first professional contract after spending his career so far with non-league clubs Farsley, Harrogate Town and Ossett Town and his signing will be a welcome boost with Michael Flynn currently sidelined with a groin problem.