Shaun Goater has warned Khano Smith he will have to develop an aggressive streak to survive the 'muck and nettles' of English football – but backs him to win a long-term deal at Lincoln City.

Bermuda legend Goater experienced his fair share of dust-ups with tough-tackling lower league defenders during his heyday as a prolific striker at Manchester City, Bristol City, Rotherham and Southend.

And he's confident Smith can catch the eye of the Imps' new manager Chris Sutton if he can add some bite to his pace, power and physical prowess.

"Khano's big, strong, around 6' 4", and very quick. I think he has the attributes to do well in England," said Goater, who set Smith up with a trial at Southend United before he joined Lincoln.

"I think they (Lincoln) will expect him to show more aggression than he's been used to. Lower league English football is quick, direct and aggressive – a lot more so than the MLS.

"I've had a brief chat to him and offered bits of advice. He knows he's only got a three-month contract and can't afford to rest on his laurels. He must view his short-term deal as like an extended trial.

"He'll be training every day and it would be very easy for him to start thinking like he's on a one or two-year deal, when the reality is he has to make each day count. He'll be under the spotlight and there will be other scouts looking at him, so even if Lincoln didn't offer him anything another club might do.

"But I think he has every chance of winning a long-term deal at Lincoln."

Former England and Blackburn Rovers striker Sutton will be unfamiliar with most of the squad he has inherited since taking over the reins at Sincil Bank earlier this month, and Goater believes that could well work to Smith's advantage.

"I think it's fortunate for Khano that Lincoln have a new coach as each player will start on a level playing field," Goater said. "He won't have any favourites and that should work in Khano's favour, it's the ideal situation for him to catch Chris Sutton's eye."

Goater believes Smith's four years as an MLS pro at New England Revolution and New York Red Bulls will stand in good stead in the UK, although he admits the level of fan scrutiny will be a shock to the system.

"I certainly believe he will become a better player from playing in England," Goater said. "It will be a lot quicker and more direct than he's been used to in the MLS.

"He will also have to get used to the demands of the supporters.

"If they don't think you're giving your all you can very quickly become surplus to requirements – they can weed you out.

"This a big chance for him after leaving the MLS and I'm delighted he hasn't had to return home to Bermuda.

"He's 28 now and he's been in the professional environment for a number of years in the MLS. I think having the MLS on his CV has certainly helped him get taken on by Lincoln."

Smith will sign a three-month contract with the Imps after impressing during an extended trial and could make his debut against Torquay next weekend.