LEE Smethills is the penultimate name in Sheffield's teamsheet for what promises to be an exciting 2008 season.

The former Hull and Workington man will start the season at reserve and joins Andre Compton, Ricky Ashworth, Ben Wilson, Joel Parsons and Paul Cooper.

Smethills, 25, spent the bulk of last season with Conference League Oxford where he rebuilt his confidence after a poor run of form.

He is expected to be one of the best reserves in the Premier League and should add valuable soring power to support the top five.

"People forget I'm only 25 because of the different clubs I've raced for and I was at Workington when I was only 18," said Smethills.

"This is my big chance now to make it as a good, solid Premier League rider and I'm determined to take it with both hands. I guess you could say this is make-or-break time in my ca! reer, because that's how I see it.

"I rode for Sheffield's junior team many years ago and I regret not signing for the senior team earlier than now. It's a great move and a great challenge, I know the rest of the lads, Ricky Ashworth only lives around the corner from me, so it's perfect."