Connor joins the Hatters

COUNTY boss Jim Gannon continued to strengthen the ranks at Edgeley Park with the addition of Curzon Ashton utility man Connor Hampson on Monday – despite confusion initially reigning over the deal.

Hampson, a left-sided defender who also regularly featured in midfield for County’s fellow National League North side, departed the Tameside Stadium last week in order to complete a move to The Hatters – although County were left irked by their neighbours’ prematurity in announcing the signing.

Speaking shortly after Saturday’s 1-1 league draw at Alfreton, Gannon confirmed that, while Curzon were free to announce Hampson’s departure, “no deal had yet been finalised” for the versatile defender.

Nash’ boss John Flanagan had earlier on in the week wished his former defender luck, heralding the former Mossley man as “a great servant for the club.”

For Gannon, the move was again a sign of The Hatters “continuing to improve” their squad as they push for promotion, with the County chief targeting signings for the long-term.

“Connor was on non-contract terms, which is always a surprise to me at this level. We’ve been looking to strengthen the left side of this team.

“We do need to keep strengthening, and we’re looking at one or two players over the coming weeks, not just for the remainder of this season but for next season as well.

“I think that’s really important to us in building a side – loans are good if you’re looking to add a dash of quality to fill in for other players, but I think the most important thing for us is to keep improving the quality of our own group of players.

“If we do that, we’ll make the progress that we all want to see.”