Former Crystal Palace and Port Vale striker Calvin Andrew joins Mansfield Town

Andrew (26) had been expected to join the One Call Stadium club earlier this week before the registration process delayed the deal.

The powerful player has impressed during pre-season and is expected to be in the squad for tomorrow’s first home game of the season against Exeter City.

Andrew said: “I’ve kept myself fit over the off-season and have put in a lot of work to get myself right. I feel I did myself justice in the few games which I’ve played in.

“I’m a strong and powerful forward with pace. I’m perhaps not as quick as I used to be but will still out-run most defenders in this league, I’m sure.”

Following the completion of the deal boss Paul Cox said the former Port Vale star would help bring a different dimension to the Mansfield attack.

“He is an experienced player who has played at a good level. He will have the know-how to bring other players into the game,” he said.

Born in Luton, Andrew began his career with his hometown club, making his first professional appearance for The Hatters in September 2004, aged just 16.

He stayed and Kenilworth Road for four years, before joining Crystal Palace ahead of the 2008/09 campaign.

Andrew made 68 appearances for The Eagles (53 of which were in the Championship), and also spent time on loan at a trio of clubs.

The frontman left Selhurst Park a year ago, and spent last term with League Two promotion winners Port Vale.