Gainsborough Trinity have moved to strengthen at the back with the signing of former Sheffield United youth Ashton Offler, who joins the Holy Blues on a permanent deal from Mickleover FC.

The 25-year-old centre-back arrives with a solid grounding in non-league football and becomes the latest addition to Gainsborough Trinity’s senior setup at a time when defensive cover is at a premium. With Harrison Beeden and Adam Crookes both struggling with injury, Offler comes in ready to compete immediately and stake a claim in the heart of the defence.

Offler’s non-league journey began at Matlock Town, where he first broke through before earning a move into the academy system at Sheffield United. Following his release from Bramall Lane, he returned to Matlock and went on to build a broad CV across the non-league pyramid, with spells at Rushall Olympic, Stamford AFC, Guiseley AFC, Sheffield FC and Grantham Town.

A commanding aerial presence at both ends of the pitch, Offler has been on Trinity’s radar for some time. Manager Russ Wilcox admitted the club have tracked the defender closely over the past two seasons and are pleased to finally secure his signature.

“Ashton is a player we have been interested in for the last two seasons. We missed out to Rushall Olympic, when they were in NLN. KP (Kevin Pressman, Gainsborough assistant) worked with him at Grantham so he knows him well as a player and a person. He’s a good age at 25, there’s still development in him.

“He knows a few of the lads too, so he should settle into the group fairly quickly. Welcome to Gainsborough, Ashton.”

Offler is equally enthusiastic about the move and the challenge ahead at The Northolme.

“I’m very happy to join Gainsborough, the club has an amazing ground and a very strong fan base so I’m excited to join the group and see what I can bring to the table. I personally had a very successful season when last playing under KP and I’m looking to carry that on in a Trinity shirt.”

The new signing is set to be available for Trinity’s upcoming trip to Bamber Bridge, weather permitting, as the Holy Blues look to build on their New Year’s Day 2-0 Lincolnshire derby win over Cleethorpes Town.

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