Pic: Eastleigh FC
AMBITIOUS National League promotion hopefuls Eastleigh have signed winger Ross Stearn from Sutton United after having a second bid accepted.
The 26-year-old was the man of the match on Saturday as Sutton played out a goalless draw with high-flying Barrow at Gander Green Lane.
It was revealed after the game that the U’s had turned down a bid from Eastleigh on the eve of the game but an improved offer has since been accepted.
Stearn has scored six times for Sutton this season and was a key part of the side that won the National League South last term.
The former Forest Green, Chippenham, Weston-super-Mare and Bath City man found it hard to get games before his move to Sutton and will now be moving into full-time football with the Spitfires.
Stearn told Sutton’s website: “Thank you to all at the club for the best two years of my career. I’ve loved being part of this wonderful club, with great team-mates and supporters.
“Winning the National League South and the subsequent celebrations is something I’ll never forget.
“From a family perspective it’s a great move for me, and I would like to thank Sutton for allowing the transfer to happen.
“I know Sutton United will keep progressing and would recommend any young player who wants to improve and progress to sign at this special football club.”
Proud boss Paul Doswell added: “Ross has improved almost game by game since joining Sutton, and thoroughly deserves this chance to secure his family’s future for the next three years, whilst also realising an ambition to be a full-time professional.
“Whilst we didn’t want to sell, Ross only had six months left on his contract, and it was unlikely that he would sign another due to his family circumstances and a regular three hour drive to the club.
“As a club we feel very proud that we can improve players and give them a chance to progress with full-time football, and Eastleigh have provided Ross with this chance.
“We will always make the right decisions for the club and our players. We don’t have the financial capacity of most clubs at this level, but players sign here because they know we will improve them and honour our word to let them progress.”
