Boss Andy Sinton has sealed a deal to bring winger Jordan Johnson to AFC Telford United – and challenged him to prove he can step straight into the team.

Johnson, 24, has been on the radar of several non-League clubs after a prolific campaign for Newcastle Town in the Evo-Stik League division one south last season.

But he has opted for a move to Blue Square Bet Premier newcomers Telford following a successful trial spell, with Sinton convinced the player has what it takes to cope with the jump of three divisions.

“Jordan was made two or three financially better offers from clubs in the Conference North – and good clubs rather than the also-rans – but he wants to try and make that step up and I’ve every confidence that he can,” said the Bucks’ chief.

“He will be a useful member of the squad and we’re not signing him to sit in the stands, we’re signing him because I think he can play.

“The gauntlet thrown down to him is to prove he can play from the off rather than needing two or three months to bed in.

“I’ve seen plenty of him in training and I’m pleased to get him because he looks exciting and he gets goals, which is a gift.”

Meanwhile, Sinton declared himself satisfied after striker Adam Proudlock scored late to earn Telford a 1-1 draw in their pre-season friendly at home to Cheltenham on Saturday.

“I’ve said to them from day one that I’m not one of these managers that say results are immaterial,” Sinton admitted. “I set my stall out to win games like this. We try and win every game, even if it is not possible.

“The squad is almost settled now. We had 22 players on Saturday and there won’t be too many changes to that.”

By CHRIS HUDSON