ANDY KING was desperately hoping for a case of 'second time lucky' as he looked to tempt Nottingham Forest's Andy Gray to the County Ground last night.

The former Scottish Under 21 international has been given a free transfer by the First Division side and the Town boss would love to add the striker/winger to his squad. King is a big admirer of Gray and feels his versatility would be a big asset, whether scoring goals or providing them. Although the current player embargo means King cannot bring in fresh faces, he can at least try and pave the way for future signings. King spoke to Gray yesterday, but a late night offer from Bradford City looked likely to persuade the 24-year-old to remain in the north.

He said: "I have spoken to the boy and made it clear that I thought he had a big part to play in our future.

"Andy fits the type of player that I want. He is tall, can play up front, out wide and even at right back.

"It's no secret that I wanted to bring him here last season but it didn't happen for a variety of reasons.

"Sadly for me, all I can do is try and sell him a vision while other clubs can offer him the security of a contract."