FOREST Green are set to beat Grimsby Town to the signature of former York City striker Jason Walker.

Ady Pennock insists the big-spending days under former boss David Hockaday are over, but his Grimsby counterpart believes Rovers’ financial clout in the transfer market remains.

He told the Grimsby Telegraph: "We know what, at times, attracts players there, so I think that will purely be a case of whether the manager wants him.

"As far as I'm aware, Jason is training at Forest Green. He certainly was prior to our game with them on Tuesday, and I would envisage that he will probably end up signing there if they want him to.”

The 29-year-old was due to play in a friendly for Rovers at Skrill South outfit Bath City on Wednesday, but the game was rained off.

Walker was released by York at the end of last summer and joined Swedish side Ostersunds FK, only to return to the UK before Christmas and train with Gateshead.

The Barrow-in-Furness striker began his career in Scotland with Dundee and Greenock Morton before joining former Conference side Morecambe.

He was released by the Shrimps in March 2007 and joined hometown club Barrow. He won a place in the hall of fame at Barrow after striking a 25-yard winning goal in the 2009 FA Trophy final against Stevenage.

Walker moved to Luton Town the following year and his final act as a Hatters player was missing a crucial penalty in the 2011 Conference Premier play-off final shoot-out defeat to AFC Wimbledon.

He moved to York for £60,000 in June 2011 and achieved the double of FA Trophy glory and promotion to the Football League in 2012.

“They have had little injuries that are clearing up now so it won’t be an easy game by any means.”

View two of Jason Walker's wonder goals below