EASTLEIGH have made a double signing ahead of today’s pre-season opener against Reading (Saturday, 12.30pm).

Manager Andy Hessenthaler has continued to bring the average age of the squad down by bringing in 24-year-old duo Alex Wynter, from Maidstone United, and Joe Jones, from Woking.

Both players have put pen to paper on a one-year deal and joined in training for the first time yesterday.

Hessenthaler explained: “My remit over the summer was to bring the average age of the squad down and that is exactly what I have managed to achieve.

"The players we are signing all have bright futures and hopefully that lies with Eastleigh Football Club.

“The chairman and the other directors have been excellent this week in allowing me to make further signings.

"I am fully aware of how tight the budget is to bring in any further signings and they have allowed me to do so. I am really pleased to get these over the line.”

Croydon-born defender Wynter, a former Crystal Palace youngster who played over 40 games for Colchester United and has been capped by England C, said: “I am really pleased to be on board.

"After speaking to the gaffer and hearing his plans for the club, I couldn’t say no.

"This is an exciting challenge and something I want to be part of. I can’t wait to get going!”

Jones, a versatile midfielder/defender, spent four-and-a-half seasons at Woking having joined the Cards as a 19-year-old from Yeovil Town. He was previously with Leicester City.

Jones commented: “Being able to focus purely on my football and getting in to a full-time football environment was important for me.

"Speaking to the gaffer, it was clear that Eastleigh would be the perfect place for me to progress my football.

"Having trained with the lads for the first time, you can tell how ambitious everyone is.

"I can’t wait for the season to start now and show the fans what I can bring to the team.”

Wynter has been handed the No15 shirt whilst Jones will take No22.

Both deals are subject to FA and National League approval.