Eastleigh sign defender Nick Akoto following Burton Albion exit

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Nick Akoto says Matt Gray’s vision for Eastleigh convinced him to join the Spitfires after leaving Burton Albion.

The 27-year-old right-back arrives at the Silverlake Stadium on a free transfer after the League One outfit announced the termination of his contract, bringing an end to his two-year spell with the Brewers.

The American-born defender then spent several years playing and studying in the United States before returning to England.

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Ideas

“It feels great,” Akoto told the club’s website after completing his move to Eastleigh. “I am excited to be here.

“Hopefully we can get a good start and kick on.”

He went on to say that he was immediately impressed by what Gray is trying to achieve at the club.

“His ideas, his plans on how to play football and what he wants to do – his vision of how he wants the season to go was appealing to me,” Akoto added.

“One of my friends from my last club played here the year before and he told me good things as well.

“It just made everything smoother to come here.”

New chapter

Limited opportunities at Burton mean Akoto is now relishing the chance for a fresh start with the Spitfires.

“Unfortunately, I had an injury,” he said. “I didn’t get the game time that I really wanted to, but that’s football.

“Nonetheless, it was a good experience. I met some good people and everyone was good to me. I wish them all the best.

“It’s just a new chapter in my life.”

Akoto says Eastleigh supporters can expect an attack-minded full-back.

“[I am] someone that likes to get forward, athletic, likes to be in and around the box and hopefully create a lot of chances for the team,” he said.

“I just try to be as exciting as possible for the team and for the fans.

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