The club are pleased to announce the signing of Joe Parker from our Vanarama National League North counterparts Gloucester City for an undisclosed fee.

The 24 year old is comfortable in midfield or up front, and has made the switch from his hometown club where he came through the Youth ranks to make the first team as a youngster. 

Joe scored two hat tricks in his first full season in Gloucester's first team, one in 19 minutes in an FA Cup tie, which bought him to the attention of Newport County, for whom he signed before being loaned back to Gloucester.

Having made his Football League debut in one of several appearances for the Welsh club, Joe returned to Gloucester for a third spell at the end of his contract with Newport. He has considerable experience at Step 2 having made over 240 appearances for Gloucester, scoring 49 goals. Joe has scored five goals so far this season, and featured in both of Gloucester's recent games against Brakes.

Manager Paul Holleran said of his new acquisition: 'Joe Parker is a player that has been around at this level for a long time and has always been a consistent performer and somebody that we have liked. When we heard that he would be leaving Gloucester and was interested in us it was something we wanted to tie up very quickly.

'He is a player that has had a taste of league football before and there's no reason why he cannot get there again. We are delighted to get his signing over the line and hope that he enjoys a successful time with us.'

Photo courtesy of Gloucester City AFC