LEE Sinnott has added more firepower to his Altrincham squad after completing the capture of George Bowerman shortly before they wrapped up their pre-season programme with a 2-1 home defeat to Port Vale.

After impressing during previous trial appearances, the former Accrington striker signed just in time to take his place on the bench against Vale and go on as a second-half substitute.

With Damian Reeves adding another goal to his pre-season tally, and Michael Rankine again proving a powerful presence, it leaves manager Lee Sinnott with plenty of attacking options, ahead of this Saturday’s Vanarama National League opener against Forest Green Rovers at The J.Davidson Stadium.

"I spoke to a couple of people about George, and he has already made a positive impact, with his industry and the way he works the line," said the Alty boss.

"It’s pleasing to have him on board, because he has plenty to offer and it gives us greater flexibility.

"He can certainly play a part in a revolving three up front, just as he can in a two-man attack or even one behind another.

"His work-rate and movement is going to ask defenders questions.

"He has this scurrying style of covering the ground, but it is effective and will cause problems."

Sinnott reiterated his challenge to his players to be 40 goals better than last season.

He said: "It’s a tough league we are in, a bizarre and complex one in terms of varying budgets, but we can only concentrate on what we can do.

"We have to be realistic when you look at what we are up against, but I want to see an improvement from us.

"We need to set a realistic target, one that stretches us, to take the next step up, and, for me, that means at least striving for 20 more goals at one end and 20 less at the other.

"Even if we fall just short, we will still have done well."

Alty are hoping Nicky Clee (groin) and Simon Richman, who went off with an ankle knock against Vale, will be fit.