KNOWLES SIGNS FOR THE SEAGULLS

Former Gloucester City central midfielder Chris Knowles has put pen to paper in BS24, while two players depart the club.

Weston beat off competition from multiple clubs to secure the signing of Knowles.

Manager Scott Bartlett said:

Chris is an experienced player and has been a terrific servant to Gloucester City.

“I was surprised when he became available, because I know how popular and influential he has been during his time there but that’s football. I am delighted to be able to bring him to Weston.

“He can play in a number of positions but is predominantly a tough tackling, competitive midfielder.

“I have known Chris for a long time right from the start of his career, he is a good character and has developed into a brilliant influence on and off the pitch.

“While Chris will be an integral part of our team, he will also join us on the coaching staff and will add a lot of value to myself, Lairdy and Macca.”

Chris said:

“I am excited to be joining Weston, an ambitious club with a manager I know well.

“I am looking forward to meeting my teammates and the coaching staff and getting started ahead of a busy Christmas period.”

About Chris

Chris started his career within the Bashley youth system, and made his way into the senior team in the 2004/2005 season, where he made 26 appearances and scored five goals.

He earned a move to Salisbury in 2005, and made seven appearances across two seasons as well as playing seven games on loan at Poole Town in the 2005-2006 season.

He made 37 appearances while on loan at Bashley in 2006-2007, scoring three goals, and signed for the club permanently in 2007, going on to make over 250 appearances for the club at Southern League level as well as becoming captain for the side before leaving in 2011.

He moved across to Australia for three years, where he played his football for Wolves FC, and upon returning to the UK in 2014, he dual registered with Cirencester Town and Gloucester City.

He featured four times for Cirencester before becoming a permanent fixture in the Gloucester midfield, going on to make over 150 appearances at National League North and South level before being released last week.

We can also confirm that right-back Connor Davies has rejoined up with Cardiff City after his loan spell in BS24 and central midfielder George Dowling has left the club.

We would like to welcome Chris to The Optima Stadium and wish him all the best during his time at the Club.

We would also like to thank Connor and George for their contributions this season and wish them both well with their careers going forward.