United manager Keith Curle finally got his man during the summer 2017 transfer window when he captured striker Hallam Hope on a two-year deal.

Hope has already spent time with the Blues when he initially joined United on a one-month loan deal at the end of October 2015.

He bagged the goal which sealed the win in the FA Cup first round away victory against Plymouth during that spell and extended his stay with the club until the end of that campaign having recovered from a troublesome ankle injury.

His half-season stay with us netted him five goals in 25 appearances.

Hope started his career when he moved to Everton from Manchester City as a youngster and had loan spells with Northampton, Sheffield Wednesday and Bury (twice) whilst still with the Toffees.

His move to Bury became permanent when he signed a three-and-a-half year deal with the Shakers in January 2015.

He has represented England at the U16, U17, U18 and U19 levels.

Hallam is sponsored by Bob Hope.