Eastwood Town have completed the signing of Nottinghamshire-based midfielder Jonathan D’Laryea, 24, and Crewe-based defender Mat Bailey, 23, from Northwich Victoria.
The two clubs have agreed an undisclosed fee for both players.
D’Laryea (pictured) joined Manchester City as a 9-year-old and graduated through their academy, making one senior appearance against Arsenal in 2004.
In 2005, he was sent out on loan to Mansfield Town and after impressing during a 3 month loan spell, joined the Stags on a two and a half year contract for an undisclosed fee. He made over 160 appearances for Mansfield and was made club captain. He received an England C call up in August 2009 but was loaned out to Northwich and following their high profile FA Cup run, D’Laryea signed an 18 month deal in November 2009.
Paul Cox said he is delighted that D’Laryea was now an Eastwood player. “I have been pursuing D’Laryea for some time, but for one reason or another, we missed out on the opportunity to talk to him when he initially went out on loan from Mansfield. Despite us making three bids for the player, Northwich were not willing to sell him, however, things change in football, and we have now agreed a deal. At 24, his best years are ahead of him, he is an absolute professional and I am sure that he will be an excellent addition.”
Bailey, 6ft 5”, started his career as a striker signing a three-year contract with League One club, Stockport County. In 2005, he signed a 1 year contract with League One club, Crewe Alexandra, where Dario Gradi decided to convert him to a central defender. He made three first-team appearances before joining then full time club, Northwich Victoria, where he made 53 appearances in the Conference Premier, scoring 5 goals. He played in both Eastwood games this season and has been ever present in for Northwich side.
Cox revealed that he has had to be patient to get both players. “I have been interested in Mat for some time, he has attracted attention from some very high profile clubs following Northwich’s excellent FA Cup run. Despite agreeing a deal with Northwich, we then had to wait a couple of weeks to discuss terms with Mat as Watford were having a look at the player, which clearly would have been a no brainer for the lad. Although Mat can also play as a target man up front, I have brought him here as a defender because I think he is one of the best centre backs at this level, and at 23, he will continue to get better.”
