PHC's prize new capture Stevie Astwood has been hailed as an 'impact player' who comes with a goals guarantee by his Zebras and national team colleague Kevin Richards.

Burly striker Astwood is in line for his first Premier Division appearance for more than 18 months when Zebras tangle with top-flight newcomers Hamilton Parish at Southampton Oval on Sunday.

The PHC graduate, and relative of the late former Zebras legend Marischal (MOP) Astwood, has been training with the defending champions since the start of the season and is now eligible for action after being released from his Bermuda Hogges franchise contract that had prevented him playing domestically.

And Hogges team-mate Richards believes Astwood's availability serves as a timely boost as PHC endeavour to swallow up ground on tabletoppers Devonshire Cougars who have started the campaign in formidable form.

"Stevie has been training with us for a few months now and many of us grew up playing with him so we're looking forward to him being able to suit up again for PHC," said last season's Premier Division MVP, Richards.

"I've been playing with Stevie since I was nine or 10 and he's always been a fierce competitor and one of the most talented players of my generation.

"With some luck he would have been playing professionally overseas but he went to the UK (Preston North End) before the law changed to allow Bermudians citizenship.

"I think he will be a big help for us on Sunday against Hamilton Parish, whether from the bench or starting, and will be a big help to us in our push to retain the league trophy."

Despite having a wealth of attacking options with the likes of Hogges forward Lloyd Holder, Cecoy Robinson, Kevin Lambe and Aquino Grant, PHC have found goals hard to come by this season but Richards is confident Astwood's predatory instincts can help remedy that problem.

"I think we have a lot of talent up front with Kevin Lambe, Cecoy Robinson and Aquino Grant to name a few," Richards said. "Stevie will increase competition for spots in the front line as some of our other new signings have done already.

"He will add to the team's goals this season whether it be scoring them himself or in the form of provider.

"I'm sure the fans will give him a big shout when he makes his return and I can't wait for him to put on the black and white jersey again.

"The transition should be easy as he will be playing for Kyle (Lightbourne) again and whether he's playing in midfield or in attack, Stevie will be an impact player for us.

"His physical presence will be a force to be reckoned with for the remainder of the season."

Speaking to The Royal Gazette earlier this month, PHC coach Lightbourne said despite Astwood's status as one of local football's leading lights he would have to fight for a starting berth like every other player.

"Obviously Stevie's a quality player and will be a big boost for us when he's available," said Lightbourne, who Astwood has played under Lightbourne for both the Bermuda national team and Bermuda Hogges.

"But we have a lot of good strikers and he will have to earn his jersey like everyone else. Maintaining our team harmony is crucial and Stevie is a team player."

Damon Ming, Bermuda Hogges' other franchise professional, is also in contention for his first Premier Division start for several years when his new club Dandy Town take on North Village at Bernard Park on Sunday.