HEREFORD have signed experienced players Paul Downing and Jordan Lyden for the remainder of the season after both have made a huge impact since arriving.

Centre half Downing has guided the Bulls to five straight clean sheets and was at the heart of defence in their 1-0 victory on Saturday against Rochdale.

Meanwhile, Lyden had played in the heart of midfield as Hereford have picked up four points in two league matches.

“The best compliment I can pay Paul (Downing) is that since he has come into the club, he has made players around him better and added a calmness to everyone,” said Paul Caddis talking to the club’s website.

“His performances have been excellent and at a level he should be extremely proud of, but, looking at Paul’s signing as a whole, I also feel extremely fortunate to have a character like him secured for the season.

“Paul and I have been in discussions about the potential to extend his deal ever since he came into the club, and with the help of the support at the weekend, and careful consideration of the positive financial impact, this deal has been made possible.

“While I understand that ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’, you need to start building it at some stage and signing players of Paul Downing’s calibre certainly helps!”

Caddis added about Lyden: “If I’m honest, attracting someone who possesses the quality of Jordan Lyden was something I thought was only do-able on a week-by-week basis, so to finally agree a contract until the end of the season is a statement of intent both on and off the pitch. 
 
“I am now confident the supporters understand my excitement when Jordan first came into training with us and then week by week showed the supporters what he was all about. Fierce in the tackle and calm in possession, he plays the game with great experience.”