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Our second signing of the day, and fourth of the summer, is six foot-four inch central defender, Will Gillingham.

Will was born in London, but his family relocated to New Zealand at an early age, and he developed his love for the game growing up in Auckland.

The twenty-four year old then secured a college place in California, turning out regularly for the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos ahead of signing a professional contract with US League One side Central Valley Fuego.

He moved to Scotland earlier this year, spending some time training with Livingston, and says he is delighted to have joined Cove Rangers on a two-year full-time deal:

“I just felt the time was right to make this move. I was born here, and I see Britain as the home of football, and I always wanted to play here.

“I got a really good grounding playing college football in the States, it was a great experience, and I learned so much there working with many different people. I’m confident that has put me in a good place, and I’m now ready for the next stage of my career.”

Manager Paul Hartley says Will comes highly recommended, and feels he can play a big part in our League One campaign next season:

“He came on our radar through Gordon Young’s contacts in the States, so we had a look at him, and liked what we saw.

“Will is a player who likes to defend, which is important, he is strong and aggressive and will be a good presence in both boxes.

“We got good reports from Livi from his time there, and I had no doubts about making a move for him.

“Apart from his defensive attributes, Will can certainly use the ball, and he’s more than capable of stepping up into midfield and helping to spring attacks from there. He has a lot to offer, and I look forward to working with him.

“He’s definitely ready to make this move and it’s a good opportunity both for Will and the club.”

Will had no doubts about putting pen to paper, and looks forward to pulling on a Cove Rangers shirt for the first time:

“I like to play passing football, I can do that, and I also know you need to go long at times, but first and foremost I’m a defender, and that will be my priority.

“Obviously I’ve got the height, and I hope that as well as keeping the ball out, I can weigh in with a few goals and assists at the other end of the pitch.

“It’s an exciting time both for the club and for me personally. I like to test myself, to take on new challenges, and I cannot wait to meet the rest of the guys, and to get started.”

The deal is subject to international clearance, and once approved, the big defender will join his new team-mates when pre-season training begins later this month.

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