Atkinson played for Grimsby in last season's Johnstone's Paint Trophy final

Grimsby Town have completed the permanent signing of Barnsley defender Rob Atkinson on a free transfer following a successful loan spell.

The 21-year-old has signed a two-and-a-half year contract at Blundell Park.

Atkinson spent most of last season on loan with the Mariners and rejoined the club on a temporary basis in October.

He told the club website: "It has taken a couple of weeks to come to an agreement and make the final decision but it is something I am happy with."

He added: "It's a two-and-a-half year contract which gives me that little bit of security and plenty of time to improve under the guidance of Mike Newell."

Atkinson came through the ranks at Oakwell and made his first-team debut for Barnsley against Luton in March 2004.

But he struggled to make a further breakthrough with the Championship club, making just nine more appearances.

He had loan spells at Scarborough, Halifax and Rochdale before joining Grimsby.

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