Bucks sign ex-Portsmouth midfielder Courtney Pitt

AFC Telford United have strengthened their squad ahead of their FA Trophy clash with Corby tomorrow by snapping up former Portsmouth midfielder Courtney Pitt.

The 28-year-old - who can play wide left, in the middle or behind the front two - has agreed non-contract terms.

He arrives after being released for financial reasons by struggling Blue Square Bet South club Weymouth and should be registered in time for tomorrow's third qualifying round tie at the New Bucks Head.

Pitt started as a youngster at Chelsea before joining Graham Rix at Championship club Pompey in 2001.

He played 39 times in his first season but was discarded after Harry Redknapp took charge at Fratton Park.

He has since enjoyed spells with Luton, Oxford and Boston and Cambridge.

"He trained with us over the summer but we didn't see enough of him to make an offer," Telford's assistant manager Darren Read revealed.

"He had an opportunity to go to Weymouth but they released him along with a few players in order to save money so we invited him back.

"We've had a good look and signed him on non-contract terms for the next four to six weeks so it's up to him to force his way into the team during that time.

"He's got great feet and he's an exciting player," added Read.

"Hopefully he'll give us a different dimension when we need to change it a little bit."

Read is also optimistic that striker Andy Brown will be available for selection for tomorrow after coming through training last night.

The five-goal forward has been struggling with a hamstring injury and has made just one substitute appearance since the end of September.

"We're just waiting to see if there has been any reaction to training last night," added the managerial No 2.

By CHRIS HUDSON