Ramsbottom United are delighted to announce the signing of striker John Murphy.

The 27-year-old forward has been tracked by Ramsbottom United manager Lee Donafee for a while, playing in the local Liverpudlian leagues, but finally got his man this week.

“John is a player that I noticed before Covid hit,” said the boss. “But I continued to monitor him locally and he is a top forward with a natural eye for goal.

“Not only that, he is aggressive and will be a real handful for defenders and we are delighted to have ‘Murph’ on board, as I believe he will fit in well at Rammy.”

Murphy has been watched closely by a number of clubs, including having a very short spell at Glossop North End, but the influence of Donafee was the telling factor.

“I have joined because Lee has a really good set up at Ramsbottom and I know him from previously,” said Murphy, becoming the second striker signed this week.

The manager continued, “He’s been sought after in non-league for a while but, through other commitments, he hasn’t been able to.

“I know he’s always wanted to play at this level, I have watched him long enough and have put the time and effort over the last month to watch him some more to be sure he was right for Rammy.”

It completes the signing of two forwards this week, following on from the capture of Hugo Rodriguez from Kendal Town as well.

“It is a big statement from us,” concluded Donafee. “And as far as natural finishing goes, Murphy is clinical.”

Murphy is named in the squad for Saturday’s NPL home match with Newcastle Town.

Welcome to Ramsbottom, John.