have to endure another season in the Second Division.

City are seeking a play-off spot, but have hit bad form and a rash of injuries to star strikers at just the wrong time.

The Bermudian was granted a free transfer last month and turned down a deadline day move to First Division Grimsby Town.

But ironically after being told he had no future at the Britannia Stadium the big frontman is turning in some of his best performances of the term.

The player has figured as a substitute in City's last three games, playing all the second half in the 2-0 defeat at the hands of promotion chasing Millwall on Tuesday.

Stoke's football executive John Rudge said the management team had been delighted with Lightbourne's response and said he could play a starring role in the club's remaining games.

"Kyle has come back into the side and to his credit has shown an appetite for the challenge,'' Rudge said.

"He was very lively in the last 10 minutes at home to Bristol Rovers last weekend and worked very hard during the second half at Millwall on Tuesday, even though it was a difficult game for our forwards.'' Lightbourne could play an even bigger role against Luton Town tomorrow if regular frontman Andy Cooke fails to recover from the thigh strain which has kept him out of the side for the last three games and Rikhardur Dadason struggles to shake off a tight hamstring.

In addition, teenage striker Marc Goodfellow is nursing an ankle injury and so the manager's options are somewhat restricted.

"Kyle knows the opportunity could suddenly be there for him to play more than just a bit-part in the remainder of our season,'' said Rudge.

"That could be good for him and good for us because he is now effectively playing for his future and with good performances he will catch the eye.''