Striker Perry relishing his chance at Stags

KYLE Perry is relishing the fight for a starting place at Mansfield Town next season.

The tall striker has signed a two-year contract at Field Mill after leaving Port Vale at the end of last season.

But the former Walsall trainee knows he is by no means certain to be handed a starting berth.

Daryl Clare, Rob Duffy and Jake Speight are also champing at the bit to start up front while Conor Higginson and Louis Briscoe are other possibilities.

But the 23-year-old, who played for Chasetown in their run to the third round proper of the FA Cup in 2008, is ready for the challenge.

"I know there are other strikers here already and good ones at that, but you need that competitive edge," said Perry.

"I'm ready to battle for my shirt and I'm sure the rest of the other lads are as well.

"I don't necessarily think it's a straight fight between Rob Duffy and myself to start.

"Some teams are big, others are smaller and you utilise the squad you have for each game.

"Sometimes you have to take a step down to go back up and that's what I have in mind."

Perry spent a loan spell at Northwich Victoria under Andy Preece towards the end of last season, scoring twice in seven appearances.

The front man feels that experience will help him quickly adapt to the Blue Square Premier.

He said: "I'm a big strong lad who can hold the ball up and win it in the air and I'm not afraid to work hard.

"Growing up when I was with Walsall from 12 to 18 I used to play on the left – I'm left-footed – and I was utilised there in League One at Port Vale.

"I've sampled what this league is about and hopefully I can do a job alongside someone, or with another two if we played three up front."