After breaking through with the Gladiators, he joined the Academy set up at Sheffield United, before linking back up with Matlock, following his release. Going on to have spells at Rushall Olympic & Stamford, before joining Sports in the Summer.

Offler has also appeared for Guiseley, Sheffield FC & Grantham. A strong, aerial presence - in both boxes - Offler's signing comes at a good time for Trinity, with centre backs Harrison Beeden & Adam Crookes struggling with injury, he comes into the side, ready to make the role his own. He leaves Mickleover, with the Derbyshire based side sitting just outside the play-offs, one step below the Blues, but Trinity boss Russ Wilcox is glad to have finally landed his man,

"Ashton is a player we have been interested in for the last two seasons. We missed out to Rushall Olympic, when they were in NLN." "KP worked with him at Grantham so he knows him well as a player and a person. He’s a good age at 25, there’s still development in him. He’s knows a few of the lads too, so he should settle into the group fairly quickly. Welcome to Gainsborough, Ashton."

On signing for the Blues, Ashton had this to say: "I’m very happy to join GTFC , the club has an amazing ground and a very strong fan base so I’m excited to join the group and see what I can bring to the table, I personally had a very successful season when last playing under KP and I’m looking to carry that on in a Trinity shirt."

Ashton will be available for tomorrow night's trip (weather permitting) to Bamber Bridge, where the Holy Blues look to build on New Year Day's 2-0 victory over Cleethorpes Town in the Lincolnshire Derby. Join us in extending a warm welcome to the new signing. Here's to a successful spell in Gainsborough Trinity colours.

Article written by Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)
Images courtesy of Rob O'Brien (Stamford AFC Photographer/ @Robgasman)