BERMUDAN international striker Steve Astwood has signed one-year deal at Preston, subject to a medical and work permit, after impressing during a summer trial.

The 18-year-old played against Burscough and the second half of last Saturday's friendly game against Athletico Bilbao after being thrown into the deep end following the loss of Jon Macken and Bjarki Gunnlaugsson to injuries.

"I thought I'd give the boy a game because of one or two injuries although he probably wasn't quite ready for it.

"He is young with massive potential and should make a mark for PNE for several seasons to come," said manager David Moyes.

Meanwhile, Preston are also hoping to bring American forward Brian McBride to Deepdale.

The 28-year-old international played alongside Everton's Joe-Max Moore in the 1998 World Cup and could join North End for six months once his season in America, with club Columbus Crew, is over.

North End are expected to tie up the deal, a club record of about £800,000, with Sheffield Wednesday striker Richard Cresswell today.