NATIONAL LEAGUE N +S IN BRIEF

SOUTHPORT have added pace to their forward options with the signing of Shrewsbury Town youngster Ethan Jones. The 19-year-old spent time out on loan last season, initially with Tranmere Rovers, before ending the campaign with NPL Premier side Stourbridge. Jones’ Shrewsbury contract expired at the end of 201617 and Southport have moved quickly to sign him up. Port boss Alan Lewer said: “He gives us some real options when planning our attack.”

ADRIANO MOKE and Hamza Bencherif have become the latest York City players to commit to the club for next season – while Michael Rankine has returned. The Minstermen are hoping to make their stay in the National League North a short one and have been handed a triple boost. Midfielder Moke and defender Bencherif were both part of the squad that lifted the FA Trophy last month. Forward Rankine, meanwhile, has re-signed for York after netting six times for Guiseley last term.

BRAD QUINTON has continued the squad rebuild at Braintree Town with ten new signings. The ex-Enfield boss has brought in midfielders Scott Shulton and Billy Crook, winger Samir Bihmoutine and defender Jonathan Muleba from his former club, while Marc Okoye and Xavier Vidal arrive from Merstham. Midfielder George Craddock and winger Roman Michael-Percil have also signed up alongside striker George Sykes and experienced forward Liam Enver-Marum.