Easterford made captain on arrival

Great Wakering Rovers are hailing the signing of John Easterford as a 'massive coup' for the Ryman North club.

Rovers manager Gary Ansell snapped up the sought after defender, pictured, on Wednesday and immediately installed him as captain following his departure from National League South side Concord Rangers last week.

Vastly experienced, before ending his second spell with The Beachboys, the 30-year-old turned out for Southend United, Southend Manor, Cheshunt, East Thurrock United, Brentwood Town and Canvey Island where he made 88 appearances and lifted the Essex Senior Cup in 2012.

In a statement on their website announcing the signing of the former Gulls vice-captain, Rovers revealed they had beaten off stiff competition for his services.

Great Wakering Rovers

Great Wakering Rovers

A spokesman said: "It's a massive coup for the club to obtain the services of such a high calibre of player and one that will certainly make people stand up and take note of Rovers intent for this season.

"Easterford is a leader both on and off the pitch and has captained previous sides such as Concord and Canvey Island respectively. As such, manager Gary Ansell has immediately made him club captain of Rovers.

"Great Wakering held off a vast number of other clubs all keen to get hold of the defender's signature. However, it was Rovers where he felt his future lay having previously been on loan at Burroughs Park. No doubt the belief in a squad that Ansell is beginning to piece together also appealed."

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