The striker has already been through a pre-season programme at Nene Park, having arrived three years ago on trial when Paul Hart instead brought in Michael Rankine.

O'Connor has previously played for Justin Edinburgh at Grays Athletic when centre-half Simon Downer was also part of that set-up in Essex.

Diamonds were today due to complete a deal for another of O'Connor's former team-mates while he kept in contact with the likes of Lee Tomlin since that brief spell together in 2006.

O'Connor said: "A lot of people just automatically assumed things didn't work out for me.

"But there were things going on behind the scenes and
compensation for Gresley Rovers was an important factor.

"If I had been able to come here on a free transfer then I'm sure I would have signed here.

"Unfortunately it didn't happen. Now I've taken the chance to come back and hopefully I can show the fans what they have missed in the last three years.

"I know the training-ground facilities are probably the best in the league and I've worked with Justin as well.

"So these are not totally fresh surroundings which should help me to fit in straightaway.

"Simon is a good friend and we kept in touch, even when I left Grays. I know a few of the other lads too.

"I always thought Diamonds had a good squad last season and we've kept the majority of those players with a couple of
additions to come in.

"I was playing out of position at Mansfield Town and spending a lot of time on the bench.

"My best position is centre-forward – that's where I feel happy playing week in, week out and getting goals.

"But firstly I've got to establish myself as a first-team regular and fight for my place.

"Hopefully I will get a chance, give it 100 per cent and stay in the side by scoring."