HARROGATE TOWN have added a fresh defensive option to their ranks after bringing in full-back Toby Sims on a six-month deal following a successful trial.

Worksop-born Sims, 25, has extensive experience in the States with the likes of Greenville FC, South Carolina United and most recently Pittsburgh Riverhounds.

He is the club's first signing of the January window.

Sims, who played with Northern Premier League side Mickleover Sports before moving to the US to play college soccer, said: “I really like the style of play we have.

New Harrogate Town signing Toby Sims. Picture courtesy of Harrogate Town AFC.

"For me it’s about hopefully breaking in to the team and helping the team in whatever way I can."

On his new recruit, manager Simon Weaver said: “He is a competitor and likes to get stuck in and has shown he is a great professional.

"At 25, he has a point to prove over here after spending a lot of time abroad.

"He has signed until the end of the season and that gives us an opportunity to have a look at him between now and then.”

League Two side Harrogate Town sign full-back 'with point to prove' in England