DEPARTED Eastleigh winger Adam Dawson has joined the Spitfires' National League promotion rivals Tranmere Rovers on a deal until the end of the season.

The 24-year-old is well-known to Rovers, having spent time on loan there last term from Kidderminster Harriers.

Bury-born Dawson joined the Spitfires in June on a one-year deal but was released earlier this week.

Eastleigh granted his request to move back up north to be closer to his wife-to-be as they are expecting a baby in the new year.

The former Liverpool scholar becomes Tranmere boss Micky Mellon's second signing since he took over the job last month.

"I'm delighted to bring Adam to the club," said Mellon.

"He is a very good player and someone who is already familiar with the place.

“It’s important to have different options within the squad and Adam will bring a bit of balance to the squad and allow us to play different ways when we need to.”