Glenn Pennyfather believes he may have unearthed the “last piece in the jigsaw” for City’s promotion hopes after completing the signing of former West Ham United and England youth winger Ishmael Welsh, who is now available for selection from this Saturday.

The 25-year-old left winger and forward, has played for an array of professional clubs since departing Upton Park in 2006 and he could feature in the Clarets’ home game against Havant & Waterlooville at the weekend, kick-off 3:00pm. Manager Pennyfather has been monitoring Welsh’s availability for some time and is pleased to sign him on.

“Ishmael has a lot of talent,” he relayed. “He can operate as a left winger to supply crosses into the danger zone and he’s capable of playing up-front himself. His time with West Ham as a youngster means he has a very good pedigree which has been recognised on an international stage as well. Ishmael joins what is already a very good squad and he’s up against some very talented players to compete for a place in the starting eleven.”

Welsh joined the Hammers straight from school and progressed through their academy, turning professional in July 2005 and appearing regularly for their Reserves. Upon his eventual release by Alan Pardew he signed a two-year contract at Yeovil Town after impressing in a pre-season trial. He scored on his debut for the Glovers on his way to making 21 appearances in addition to loan spells at Weymouth and Torquay United, the latter for a whole season.

He moved back into the non-league game with Forest Green Rovers on another temporary transfer in 2008 then became a permanent part of a successful Grays Athletic side for 2008/09, playing in another 40 games. It was at this time that his form earned him a place in the England C Team for semi-professional players and he was selected twice during 2009.

In 2009/10 Welsh moved to Ebbsfleet United and played 30 more times before re-joining Grays the following season. January 2011 saw him make his next move to Lewes and he lined-up for the Rooks in a 4-0 defeat to the Clarets at Melbourne last season, almost scoring with a well-placed free kick in the second half. Earlier in his career he picked-up caps for the England Under 16s and he hopes to enjoy more career highlights at City.