Hall Road Rangers could be on the verge of making the biggest signing in the club's history after opening talks with ex-Everton defender Craig Short.

The veteran centre-back is keen to get back into football following his release by Sheffield United after their relegation from the Premiership.

Rangers boss Steve Richards wants to bring his former Scarborough team-mate to Dene Park to help achieve promotion to the Northern Counties East League Premier Division.

He told the Hull Daily Mail: "He would be a very good signing if we can get him. I am in discussions with Craig about possibly playing for us. He will fill in and help out if we get injuries."

Short, 39, started his career in 1986 with Pickering Town before moves to Scarborough and Notts County.

He left Meadow Lane in 1993 to join Derby County before moving to Everton.

He then signed for Blackburn Rovers in 1999, making 114 starts and played in two UEFA Cup games.

He left Ewood Park in 2005 to join the Blades and helped to win promotion to the top flight.

He postponed his retirement to help boost their Premiership squad last season, but made just two appearances in the League Cup.

Rangers chairman Bob Smailes said the club's bid to sign him is a statement of intent by the Dunswell-based side.

Smailes told the Mail: "We're more determined than ever this year to achieve promotion and the club are certainly heading in the right direction.

"If we can secure Craig's services it will be a big help in achieving our aim of being a UniBond division side in the next three years."