EASTLEIGH’S first ever Vanarama Conference opponents Nuneaton Town have strengthened their attack.

The Midlanders have signed former Middlesbrough and Celtic striker Ben Hutchinson on a one-year deal, hot on the heels of taking Brazilian frontman Magno Vieira on a month’s loan from Forest Green Rovers.

Born in Nottingham, Hutchinson’s sparkling performances for Arnold Town in the FA Youth Cup earned him a move to Middlesbrough in 2005, where he made eight first-team appearances.

He went on to play five times for Celtic, but spent most of his time out on loan at Swindon Town, Dundee and Lincoln City while north of the border.

A further move to Kilmarnock followed before he joined Manfield Town in 2012. He was released at the end of last season.

Nuneaton boss Brian Reid said: “Ben has looked sharp during trial games and taken his goals well. He has good pedigree and I’m delighted to welcome him on board.”

Eastleigh, newly-promoted champions of the Conference South, travel to the Sperrin Brewery Stadium this Saturday (3pm).

The Spitfires have made some quality attacking signings themselves, bringing in Jack Midson, James Constable and Ben Wright for their first season in non-League's top flight.