Essel is a raw talent, who is set to excite the Trinity faithful, with his pace, directness and workrate. Partnered with Declan Howe, and the other attacking options at Wilcox's disposal, it's fair to say, defenders will have very little respite.

19 year old Edwin, was born in Grimsby, going on to play for Town, Borough & Cleethorpes. The latter two on loan. Essel has also made one appearance for league rivals Guiseley, as he looked to impress in the academy at Blundell Park. Circumstances at Grimsby meant that it was time for Essel to move on and pursue new opportunities - and fortunately for the Holy Blues - he has chosen Gainsborough as his next chapter,

"I’m just happy to have signed, after speaking with Russ and some of the players I knew it was a no brainer really" 

Wilcox has had to bide his time, before landing his man. Pace is an element all managers want in their team & Edwin has that in abundance. Following his release by the Mariners, Edwin has been out on trial at some Vanarama National League sides, again getting on the scoresheet for these higher ranked sides, "I've liked him. I wanted him to come in earlier in pre-season, but he's tried his hand at a National League side. They didn't take him, so I've been back on for the phone and brought him in. I thought he did well against Scunthorpe, but I'd seen enough of him, as I'd watched him a lot in his youth days at Grimsby."

"I've had good feedback off Neil Woods the Academy Manager there, so it was a no brainer. He gives us that pace in the forward areas. Obviously, we know Dec has that, but the rest of the forwards are more technical, so he is a good addition to the squad."

Welcome to Gainsborough, Edwin!

Edwin has had his home shirt sponsored already by Treaty of Commerce. And we are on the look out for an away shirt sponsor, priced at £100 (£120 including VAT for businesses)

Article by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)
Photograph by Bryan Pye (@brypyephotography)