News

32-year-old defender Allan Davies has joined the Moatmen from local rivals Ilkeston Town. The experienced former Burton Albion and Worcester City defender started his career as a trainee at Manchester City before joining the Brewers in 1991. He remained at Eton Park for 10 years during which he enjoyed a testimonial match against Derby County before moving to Worcester City after a 3 month loan spell in 2001. Last season Davies made the switch from St Georges Lane to the New Manor Ground and helped Ilkeston Town to a UniBond Division One runners up place.

Manager Gary Norton commented: "I'm very happy to be adding a player like Allan to the squad. His joining will give us some of the much needed experience I felt we lacked at various times last season and will also increase competition for places in the squad. His recognised position is right back but he can also operate in several other positions including central defence and left back so he will offer us great versatility in addition to his quality and experience."

The Moat boss added that Davies will not be guaranteed a first team place and like everyone else will have to fight for the shirt.

He added: "I explained to Allan that as things stood currently Niall Hudson was our first choice full back last season and he has also signed UniBond forms for next season. However, Niall has been offered a trial next week for an Irish First Division side so potentially he could end up moving on which could open the door for Allan. Whether Niall remains or not is irrelevant, as Allan knows he has to fight for his place in the team and if Niall remains it will be an interesting battle for the shirt. Allan is really up for the challenge with us and can't wait to get started. I was very impressed with his attitude and how he came across when we spoke and I think he will prove to be a great asset to the club both on and off the pitch.

The Stretton based defender commented: "I'm really pleased to be joining Gresley Rovers. I am really good friends with Matt Smith and have heard a lot good things about the club from him. After I spoke with Gary it was a pretty straightforward decision for me to join the club. He's an ambitious manager and has some good ideas to take the club forward and I'm very much looking forward to being part of that. I'm aware there will be competition for places and its down to me to get a good pre-season in and give Gary tough decisions to make with regard to team selection."