GUISELEY’S summer recruitment has begun with the club announcing the signing of experienced striker Michael Rankine from last season’s National League rivals Altrincham.

The Lions remained in the top tier of non-league soccer, on the last day of last season, while Alti were relegated to the National North.

Lions boss Mark Bower said of the 31-year-old: “Having met with Michael and spoken to him at length over the past couple of weeks, we’re confident he has the right character and qualities to help us improve on last season and we are delighted that he has chosen to join us over more lucrative offers elsewhere.

“He scored 16 goals last season at National League level and brings a wealth of experience, a real physical presence and the right mentality to be a leader both on and off the pitch.”

The Doncaster-born player began his career at his home-town club before moving on to play for Rushden & Diamonds, York City, Hereford United, Scunthorpe, Aldershot Town and Gateshead before joining Altrincham last summer.

Rankine links up with former Minstermen team-mates Adam Smith, Will Hatfield and Adam Boyes at Nethermoor. Bower is expected to make more additions before his squad reports back ahead of their second season at the top table.