Words John Edwards

Phil Parkinson has strengthened Altrincham's defensive resources by snapping up free agent Connor Teale ahead of Saturday's Vanarama National League trip to Braintree Town.

The 21-year old has been without a club since leaving EFL League Two Fleetwood Town in the summer but goes straight into contention to face Braintree after being handed squad number 31.

A tall, commanding centre-back, Connor is a welcome addition to Alty's defensive options as the Robins bid to make it three straight National League wins after closing in on the play-off places with victories over Dagenham & Redbridge and Tamworth.

Connor started out in Leeds United's Academy and made it into their under-18 Premier League squad before moving to Fleetwood and making his League One debut for them against Ipswich Town on the final day of the 2022-23 season.

He played 12 times for Fleetwood in all and had successful loan spells with Marine, Curzon Ashton, Farsley Celtic and Alfreton Town over the course of two seasons, prior to heading north and gaining more valuable experience with Scottish Championship side Arbroath in a loan deal that ran from last February until the end of the 2023-24 campaign.

On joining Arbroath, the 6ft 2in defender described his style of play by saying: "I take pride in keeping clean sheets and defending well, but I also like to get on the ball and play, so it's a good mix."

A warm welcome to The J.Davidson Stadium, Connor, and here's wishing you every success in your time as an Alty player.