Football Southam-Hales impressed by the ambition being shown by Gas

MACAULEY Southam-Hales admitted recommendations from staff at Stockport County as well as Bristol Rovers’ “ambition” played a part in his move to BS7 after he was confirmed as the Gas’ third addition of the summer transfer window.

- Dan CARTER

The 29-year-old has put pen to paper on a two-year contract with Darrell Clarke's side after completing a permanent move to the Memorial Stadium from Stockport, where he played 20 times in all competitions last season.

Although the move sees the former right-sided defender drop down a division into League Two, his decision was made simple when he spoke to Clarke and one or two former members of Gas’ staff now plying their trade at Edgeley Park.

Speaking to Rovers’ club media about the move, the full-back said: “I'm delighted to get the deal done. I just can’t wait to get going.

“I heard about the interest, and there are some links to Stockport with some of the staff up there who were here. They spoke highly about Bristol Rovers, and I really can’t wait to get going and get down here.