BRISTOL Rovers have today completed the signing of Eastleigh defender Joe Partington, on a permanent contract, for an undisclosed fee.

Rovers manager Darrell Clarke said of his new arrival: “I am very pleased to have signed Joe, a player who can play in one or two different positions.

“He is hungry and keen to learn and is a welcome addition to our squad and I’m sure that our supporters will be looking forward to seeing him play.”

Born in Portsmouth, the 26-year-old has won Welsh international caps at U-17, U-19 and U-21 levels and began his career with AFC Bournemouth for whom he appeared in 52 league games between 2007 and 2015.

During his time with Bournemouth Partington spent time on loan with Eastbourne and Aldershot and he joined Eastleigh, initially on loan, in January 2015 and signed a permanent deal with them in July of that year.

He went on to appear in 81 league games for the National League side, scoring six goals in the process. He was their captain and player of the year last season.

Partington goes straight into the squad for Rovers’ game at Fleetwood Town tomorrow.