JON STEAD says James Vaughan would be an invaluable addition to Huddersfield Town’s squad on a permanent basis – and has hinted he’d be more than interested in returning to his first club.

The 30-year-old Bristol City striker same through Town’s academy and scored 24 goals in 76 games to earn a £1.25m move to Blackburn in February 2004.

He came off the bench as already-relegated Bristol were beaten 3-1 by Town at Ashton Gate on Saturday, when on-loan Norwich striker Vaughan chalked up an impressive hat trick.

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That means Mark Robins’ side will be certain of Championship survival if they take a point from Saturday’s high-stakes home derby against Barnsley.

Vaughan has scored 13 Town goals in all and Stead said: “James bordered on being unplayable.

“Everyone knows what he is capable of and it remains to be seen if Town can hang onto him for next season. Lee Novak also did a great job. We were nowhere near our best and as a team Town took full advantage, playing very well.”

On his own situation, Stead explained: “I’m out of contract this summer and I don’t think anything is going to happen for me here at Bristol.

My family are looking to move back up North, so who knows? I am looking at all options, including staying where I am, but I’m open to offers and available if anyone is interested.”

Stead is desperate Town stay up, adding: “Huddersfield is where I grew up and I still support the club to this day.

“I love to see them doing well and it’s not been nice to see them fighting at the wrong end of the table.”