EASTLEIGH have announced the permanent signing of ex-Bristol City left-back Vince Harper from Chippenham Town.
The 20-year-old only signed for the National League South outfit weeks ago but the Spitfires have really wanted to bring him in since he excelled in a pre-season friendly against them in August – while only on trial at Chippenham.
Harper impressed the Eastleigh hierarchy so immensely in that performance, setting the wheels in motion for this move just over a month later.
He had made three appearances in the league so far this season, before Ben Strevens’ side have made a long-desired move happen to offer rotation with current left-back Michael Kelly.
The young full-back has had loan spells at Gloucester City, Weston Super-Mare and Bath City while progressing through the Robins’ youth teams.
Harper never made a first-team appearance for City but was well thought of in the youth system – his older brother, Ashley, was also on the books at the Championship outfit before his eventual release and move into non-league.
Strevens’ side have failed to win in their opening three fixtures after two losses and a draw, and will be hoping for an improved result when they travel to Barnet on Saturday 11 September.
