EXPERIENCED defender Steve Yates today joined Town on trial.
The 33-year-old former Bristol Rovers, QPR and Tranmere defender has a year left on his Sheffield United contract.
Bramall Lane chief Neil Warnock is prepared to let Yates move on, however, and Town are keen suitors.
Manager Peter Jackson intends to play Yates in tomorrow's first pre-season friendly against Wakefield and Emley at Belle Vue (7.30) and also in Saturday's trip to face Halifax at The Shay (3.00).
Jackson, who today signed Chris Holland on a one-year contract, commented:
"Steve's experience speaks for itself and, as he can play either at centre-back or right-back, I'm keen to have a look at him.
"While Steve has played at a high level for most of his career and would be stepping down to join us, he is enthusiastic to check us out and we'll see how things develop."
Yates has over 400 senior appearances to his name and played in the Worthington Cup final as a substitute when Tranmere lost to 2-1 to Leicester three years ago.
"It's a good chance for Steve to look at us and vice versa and, as I'm looking to bring some experience to the defence, he could well fit the bill," added Jackson, who continues to have talks with Oldham midfielder Tony Carss.
On Holland's decision to stay with the club he joined for £150,000 in February 2000, Jackson added: "I'm delighted Chris is staying with the club.
"He has good experience and if he can reproduce the form which I know he's capable of, he will be a very useful man to have around to bolster our midfield.
"It is going to be a big season for Chris, as it is for all the squad and for myself, and I know he is looking forward to it.
"If we could add in Tony Carss as well it would be a good boost for us and, while nothing is sorted, the talks are quite positive."
Consortium leader Ken Davy reported `little progress' in efforts to sort out the hitch delaying Town's Football League licence, which appears to revolve around internet agreements.
