Joe Ironside signs deal with Alfreton Town

Ironside, who has played for Sheffield United and Hartlepool United, said he believed in the relegation-threatened club’s ambition.

He scored four goals during 16 loan appearances for the Conference Premier club earlier in the season.

Said Ironside: “I’m extremely excited to sign with Alfreton Town. I enjoyed my time with the club on loan earlier in the season and I can’t wait to get started again.

“I am really pleased to be back and am hopeful I can help keep the club up. With the recent announcements (new investment from American investment group Legend Football Partners), it’s obvious that the club has ambitious plans.

“While I had opportunities to sign with Football League clubs, I chose Alfreton Town because I believe in the direction of the club.

“I’m looking forward to playing football for the supporters of Alfreton, who were great to me during my previous time there.”

Alfreton Town announce new investmentChairman Wayne Bradley added: “We are extremely happy that Joe made the decision to sign with Alfreton when he had a number of other options.

“Joe is a quality player who will help Alfreton Town. We believe he has a positive future in football.”

Jonathan Collura, from Legend Football Partners, added: “Ironside is an excellent example of the focus that we have going forward and the commitment that we have to developing young talent.

“I am pleased that he recognised the opportunity with Alfreton Town.”

The addition of Ironside marks the second significant signing during the current transfer window for Alfreton.

Former Crewe Alexandra winger John Johnston was added on an 18-month contract to keep him with the Reds through to the end of the 2015/16 season.