MORECAMBE boss Sammy McIlroy has today added to his squad by signing Exeter City midfielder Emmanuel Panther on season-long loan.

The 25-year-old has been signed as cover for Fraser McLachlan who suffered an injury in the opening day of the season against Hereford Utd which will leave him out of contention until the end of the season.

Panther is well known to Shrimps fans after starring for former Conference rivals York City, playing against the Shrimps in the play-off semi-finals three seasons ago. He also made his mark at Christie Park last year, scoring a late goal to deny the Shrimps victory against Exeter.

The 25-year-old midfielder started his career with St Johnstone before joining Partick Thistle in 2003.

He signed for York in 2005 and made 123 appearances, scoring four goals in his time there. He left the Minstermen to join Exeter but has played only a handful of games for Paul Tisdale's side.

Talking about the deal McIlroy said: "I need cover for Fraser and Garry Hunter in the midfield position and Manny is someone who I think could fill that slot well.

"He has always impressed me when I have seen him. He has a great engine and I am sure he will be a fantastic addition to our squad.''