MIKE Carter, one of the brightest jewels in Sholing’s FA Vase-winning crown, has left the Sydenhams Premier Division champions.

The 22-year-old high-energy full-back/midfielder has stepped up three levels to join Conference South outfit Gosport Borough.

Carter – a youngster with Saints between the ages of ten and 16 - was one of four new signings unveiled by Gosport earlier today.

He is joined at Privett Park by 32-year-old former Eastleigh and Basingstoke striker Robbie Matthews who has a wealth of Conference experience with Salisbury City, Crawley Town, Forest Green Rovers and Kidderminster Harriers.

And manager Alex Pike has also swooped for former Romsey Town midfielder Stuart Green from Moneyfields and ex-AFC Totton striker Jack Odam, who captained Bashley in the Southern Premier Division last season.

Pike is also on the trail of midfielder Steve Ramsey who was released by neighbours Havant & Waterlooville this summer having had a short loan spell with Borough last term.