FULL-back Sam Minihan has been snapped up by Vanarama National League North rivals Stockport County after leaving Worcester City.

Minihan was named City’s player’s player and young player of the year, but he decided to move back to his hometown Rochdale after graduating from Loughborough University.

Stockport boss James Gannon says the 22-year-old “caught his eye” when he played against his side at Aggborough towards the end of last season.

And Gannon believes Minihan, who started his career at Rochdale, will give Stockport “great options” due to ability to get up and down the flank.

“I'm very pleased to have Sam signed on for the season ahead,” Gannon said.

“The addition of another defender with Sam's athleticism and ability has given me that extra confidence that we now have great depth and balance within the squad rather than it just being good.

“We also now have the opportunity to play other formations that include wing backs or the use of full backs that extend the full length of the pitch, which I am seriously considering.

“Sam can play full back, wing back or act as a hard working wide or 'side' midfielder in a three or four-man midfield.

"Sam caught our eye in our game away at Worcester City towards the end of the season, although we were previously aware of his football upbringing at Rochdale.

“He's had a fantastic season at Worcester, playing a lot of games and has had great personal success, earning the young player and player's player of the season in his first full season at this level.

“Given that Sam is only 22, I feel he epitomises the 'proven but with potential' box on our recruitment list."

Having completed his university education, Minihan is now ready to focus on football and Gannon added: "I think he's ready to concentrate on his playing career and at such a relatively young age he is right to still have ambitions to play full-time in the near future.

“And with a relocation back to his hometown of Rochdale, which prompted Sam to consider options in the North West, I'm sure he's excited by the opportunity to play, develop and progress his career here at Edgeley Park.

“I am also look forward to working with such a dedicated, hungry, young player.”