Belper Town manager Jim Albans has acquired the services of young goalkeeper Mark Rathbone as he furthers his preparations for the start of the new season.

Rathbone, 18, who grew up and lives in Belper says he is 'delighted' with the move and is 'really impressed' by Albans plans and the set up at the club.

The young 'keeper has been part of Belper Town's youth set up for several years and has also had spells with Belper United and Derby County football & education, who he played for whilst studying at Derby College.

I asked Rathbone how excited he is about getting started at Belper;

“Obviously delighted to have signed for Belper Town, I
have always lived in Belper and it is a great opportunity for me to prove myself at a higher level”

“I have seen the set up down at the club and I am really impressed, it is the perfect place for me to start, going into men’s football fulltime”

“He (Jim Albans) is building a young team trying to bring players through from the Under 21 and 18’s sides, also trying to sign more local lads which makes it easier for me to fit in"

Rathbone is likely to be back up to current Nailers number one Danny Haystead but will be a regular for the Under 21's side.

First-team manager Jim Albans had this to say on his latest summer signing;

“He will be training with one of the best goalkeepers at this level, if not the level above in Danny Haystead, Danny gave him glowing compliments after Saturday morning’s training session”

“He is a good lad to push Danny and is perfect back up for him, he (Mark) will play regular football for the Under 21’s and will be there if Danny picks up any injuries”

“It will be tough for him (Mark) to take Danny’s number one spot but he has got to be ambitious, work hard and make sure he pushes Danny in every training session”