Paul Holleran has secured his second new signing of the close season, bringing in Tim Berridge's former Coalville Town team mate and Ravens' captain, Joe Doyle-Charles.
The latest in a number of Burton Albion academy graduates to link up with the club, Joe spent a similar six year spell with Coalville, playing over 200 games for the Leicestershire club. The 28 year old had a spell with Ilkeston Town after leaving Burton, and has also played for Alfreton Town and Matlock Town, but enjoyed a successful time under Adam Stevens at Coalville as part of a strong promotion chasing team that also had some memorable FA Cup and Trophy runs.
'Like Tim, we're delighted to get Joe over the line,' said the manager. 'He's an experienced non league player, regarded as one of the best at Step 3 in recent years, and he's exactly the type we are looking to bring in this summer. He's a deep lying midfield player who can get around the pitch and use the ball well. He's at a good age now, and is another player who has spent a fair bit of time at Step 3 but now wants to step up the pyramid. I think he'll be a good fit for us and we'll be a good fit for him, and we are really looking forward to working with him.'
The player himself is eager to get stuck in to his new challenge. 'I’m really looking forward to playing for Leamington, it’s a club I’ve always kept a close eye on in the past and to finally get the chance to play under the gaffer Paul, who has been unbelievable for me since we started speaking this summer.
'Personally for me to make the step up, it’s refreshing, a new start with different faces and coming up against big teams in a competitive league is exciting for me. I’m looking forward to getting started in pre season with the lads and hopefully having a successful season.'
We would like to welcome Joe and his family to Leamington FC, and hope that he enjoys a successful time with us.
Photo courtesy of Chris Simpson.
