Fleetwood Town have netted a third keeper after Craig Dootson signed from Blue Square North rivals Alfreton Town
Dootson, who turned down a move to Harrogate Town to sign for Fleetwood, joins Danny Hurst, regular this season in Town's number one shirt, and Aaron Grundy
Town manager Micky Mellon welcomed his latest signing: “We felt it was appropriate to approach Craig when he became available. He’s a top class goalkeeper and a big character in the dressing room. He’s a winner and his ambition matches that of Fleetwood Town. We only go after people who match our aspirations. Craig wants to work with Eric Nixon and push forward as a player with the club.”
Dootson, 30, is already acquainted with Town’s other two keepers. “I know personally the two lads already at Highbury and I’m very good friends with Danny Hurst. Aaron Grundy was a youngster at Bury when I was in the first-team. I contacted Danny to say there was a possibility I may be coming to Fleetwood and how did he feel about it. We had a good chat, some banter, and he said we’ll see who earns the number one shirt. We left it at that without any bad feelings.
“This is a great opportunity for all of us. Danny will have to be on top of his game because I want to get into the team. That’s the main thing for me. I bring my Football League experience and some stability. Danny is a class goalkeeper so it’s important for everybody to have fit keepers competing for the shirt.”
Dootson knows all about football at his new club having faced up against Fleetwood for Alfreton Town and Hyde United. “I just hope the fans are better to me now! I’ve spoke with the chairman and manager and they are looking for big things for the club. Hopefully I can come along as well and enjoy what is happening. As a 30-year-old footballer, I didn’t think I’d be so excited about playing football for a new club.”
