NEW capture Devante Cole can add some zip to City’s attack, according to Phil Parkinson.

The 6ft 1in striker is set to go straight into the reckoning for this afternoon’s Valley Parade clash against Port Vale.

City snapped up the son of former Manchester United and Newcastle hitman Andrew Cole on a two-year deal yesterday and the club have an option on a third.

His arrival compensates for the loss of injured Billy Clarke and Parkinson believes Cole will be an asset.

The City boss said: “He adds real pace to the team and there is no substitute for that. You can’t have enough pace in the squad.

“Devante gives us another option at the top of the pitch and we’re really pleased to have him.”

The 20-year-old, who becomes City’s 13th new arrival since the end of last season, has been linked with higher-division clubs during the summer. Birmingham and Preston both tried to sign him and West Ham also had the striker on trial.

City have paid nothing for him but Manchester City have a significant sell-on clause, thought to be 30 per cent, in any future fee. Having offered him a contract, the Premier League club are entitled to a compensation package because of his age.

Cole has been with Man City since he was seven but made his mark in League One last season with two loan spells, scoring seven goals in 23 games for Barnsley and three in 14 at MK Dons.

Parkinson said: “It’s a big advantage for us that he has had that experience of the league.

“He went out last season at 19 and had an impact straight away. Ten goals in total is a good return.

“It’s always hard when you have that first loan out with no league experience but he handled it well.

“Devante has played at England youth level and we’re looking to be the part of the next stage of his development.

“Now we’re looking for him to join us, roll his sleeves up and fight for a place in the team like everyone else.”