Liam Hearn: Mansfield Town sign former Grimsby Town striker

Hearn left Grimsby by mutual consent in March following a serious knee injury

Mansfield Town have completed the signing of former Grimsby Town striker Liam Hearn after the Football League rubber-stamped his registration.

Hearn, 28, had his Mariners contract terminated by mutual consent in March following a serious knee injury.

He said: "I've known the gaffer [Paul Cox] for a long time and I had my heart set on coming here last summer, but it didn't materialise.

"Then this season I thought it would never happen because of my injury."

The Bulwell-born frontman had a trial with the Stags at the end of last season and has scored a goal every two games since beginning his career with Hucknall Town over a decade ago.

The ex-Alfreton man netted 27 league goals in his first year with Grimbsy in 2011-12 after joining on a three-year contract, but was plagued by injuries in his final two seasons.

"My immediate targets are to have an injury-free season and score some goals," continued Hearn.

"The fans can be a real force here and I'm hoping we can have some good times."