Harrogate Town signing Josh Andrews promises to be more than just a big man up front after loan signing from Birmingham City

The Sulphurites have scored just 28 goals in their first 25 matches in the Football League, and have been overly-dependent on Jack Muldoon for them. He is the top-scorer with 11 league goals but the next best tally is Aaron Martin's with four.

Mark Beck and Jon Stead were Harrogate's targetmen as they won promotion from the Conference last season, have only scored once each in League Two this term, with Beck also making one. At 37, former Huddersfield Town, Sheffield United and Bradford City striker Stead's appearances have to be rationed.

At 19 years old, Andrews is at the opposite end of the scale. He has scored nine goals and assisted four in development football this season.

He stands 6ft 3in tall, but stresses there is more to him than just his size.

“Being a big lad, hold up play is important to me and although it might not look it, I’m actually quite quick so I can get in behind and opponents may not see that coming,” he said.

“First-team football is what I’m after. It’s an increase in intensity and physicality and it's where I want to play. Not only is this a great step in my career but hopefully I can help the club as well.”

Andrews is Town's seventh signing of the window, and expected to be the last.

“We operate best with a big man and quick man up front,” explained manager Simon Weaver. “Injuries have meant this is a great opportunity to bring in a young lad who has a lot of promise,” Weaver added.

“It’s his first loan which means it’s not about starting every game but adapting to the culture and learning. When Birmingham told me he’s the type of lad that’s willing to learn, it became a no-brainer for us.”

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