MANCHESTER, England Manchester City Manager Joe Royle ended his hunt for a new striker on Friday by signing Darren Huckerby from Leeds for 3,000,000 pounds ($4.47 million).

The 24-year-old forward has been pushed into the background at Elland Road since his move from Coventry for four million pounds two seasons ago.

"We needed that extra striker since George Weah left and at the age at 24 there's a lot in front of him," Royle told a news conference.

Huckerby said he was desperate to play again after spending most of his time at Leeds as a substitute.

"I've really had a year and a half off from doing what I can and I wanted to get back to what I do best. It's been tough at Leeds with the quality strikers they've got there but I want to start playing as soon as possible," he said.

Royle also confirmed he had made an enquiry for West Ham midfielder Steve Lomas but said he had received no encouragement.

(Reuter)