By Paul Holland
July 2 2002

Neil Warnock has completed his first summer signing, capturing defender Steve Yates on a Bosman free transfer. Yates, who made 44 appearances for Tranmere Rovers last season, has signed a two-year contract.

The 32-year-old defender began his career at Bristol Rovers and then had a six-year spell at QPR before joining Tranmere in the summer of 1999.

Yates's experience is a welcome addition to the United rearguard following the loss of Keith Curle, Lee Sandford and Gus Uhlenbeek since the end of the season.