Boss Mike Davies welcomes Spender to TNS

The New saints have signed ex-Wales Under-21 full-back Simon Spender, 25, and centre-half Jermaine Johnson from Stafford Rangers.

Spender played 110 first-team games for Wrexham before joining Barrow in March 2009 and joins 20-year-old Johnson.

"These signings illustrate our commitment to regaining the league title next season," said managing director Mike Harris.

Danny Holmes, Jamie Wood and Craig Williams have been released.

Barrow wanted to keep Spender, but he was keen to return to full-time football.

"TNS have been the best side in Wales over the past 10 years and, having discussed the club's plans for the future, I'm sure that success will continue," Spender said.

"They have a pitch which encourages attractive passing football and I look forward to being part of that."

Johnson (right) played for Chelsea's books as a youth

The arrival of Spender, who can also operate in the centre of defence, marks the departure from TNS of Holmes, who has not been offered terms for next season.

Holmes signed from Tranmere Rovers two years ago and had made 57 Welsh Premier appearances, scoring three goals.

Harris added: "We want to ensure we can continue the success we have enjoyed in the past."

Saints missed out on retaining the Welsh Premier League title on the last day of the campaign and so missed out next season's Champions League.

But the club have been buoyed by news that they have been seeded in the draw for the opening rounds of the Europa League.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version