Matlock Town sign midfielder Cesaire Lingouba from Witton Albion.

Matlock Town boss Paul Phillips has bolstered his attacking options.

The Congolese midfielder (25) began his career at Stalybridge Celtic before moving to Droylsden. He joined Witton in 2016/17, last season making 32 appearances.

Manager Paul Phillips says Lingouba had been on his radar for some time.

“We watched him last season when he was with Witton and identified him as a player who could do well for us,” he said.

“He’s a good, strong holding midfielder, at present we only have Mark Lees in there that can do that job.

“We’ve got more midfielders that specialise in going forward, so it’s important that we get someone who’s athletic and can sit in there, he’ll be able to play a massive part for us especially away from home.”

Lingouba’s signing was too late for him to be eligible for the FA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round trip to Grantham.

Meanwhile the Gladiators have released another midfielder, Joe Coveney. A former Mancherster City youngster, Coveney spent last season at Colne before joining the Gladiators in the summer.

“He wants regular football, that’s totally understandable, he’s a great lad but I can’t promise him the game time he wants as we’re well catered for in the attacking midfield positions. He leaves with our best wishes for the future,” Phillips added.