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Justin Rowe signs for Gresley
Justin Rowe
Gresley Rovers made their first signing of the close season this morning. Striker 20yr old Justin Rowe has agreed to join the Moatmen after being released by Telford.
He joined the Conference side Telford United in August 2003 after a short spell with Hereford United. Birmingham born Rowe started his senior footballing career at Continental Star and then came to prominence with Grosvenor Park, who he helped gain promotion to the Midland Alliance.
Rowe first came on loan to Gresley in March playing two games before being recalled by Telford.
He made an immediate impact for the Moatmen scoring two goals in his debut match against Stourport Swifts and in the following game hit the net again against Cinderford Town.
Chairman Mark Evans said this morning: "The discussions with Justin started three weeks ago and were carried out in a professional manner and I'm absolutely delighted that he has agreed to sign for us.
"We saw his footballing ability in the two games he played for us on loan and he is a professional both on and off the pitch. I can't wait to see him in action when the new season starts."
Gresley Rovers manager Gary Norton said: "I am delighted that we have managed to persuade a player of Justin's calibre to join us. During our discussions it was obvious that he shares the ambition and enthusiasm that I have for the game and I'm convinced that he will do very well for us. We've managed to put together a decent package for Justin but he could have got a much better deal elsewhere.
"The difference between us having an average season and a good one last term was having a proven goalscorer in our ranks for the duration of the season. We now have that and I'm looking to strengthen further in that department."
"Justin was being tracked by a number of clubs and we've managed to beat clubs of some standing for his signature. The signing of Justin will I hope demonstrate to our supporters our intentions for the forthcoming season and I'm hopeful that Justin's arrival is only the start. I'm meeting with a number of potential new signings during the next couple of weeks and want to have in place as much of our squad as possible by the time we report back for pre season"