FORMER Albania U21 international midfielder Andi Thanoj is targeting automatic promotion after signing for Harrogate Town.
Thanoj, 23, joins from National League North rivals Alfreton Town following two seasons at the Impact Arena, in which he made 50 appearances and scored five times.
Harrogate boss Simon Weaver says he knows all about Thanoj and was no doubt impressed by his goal that helped Alfreton to a 2-1 win at the CNG Stadium in November.
Although born in the Albanian capital Tirana, Thanoj came to England as a child and worked his way through the youth system at Grimsby Town, making 72 first team appearances, before joining Alfreton.
Thanoj told Harrogate’s website: “I’m really happy to have finally got the deal done. I know a lot about the club and what they’re trying to do.
“Automatic promotion is what everyone is striving for and that’s why I’ve come to this club – to go straight up.”
On his fifth summer signing, boss Weaver added: “We’ve known about Andi’s qualities for some time but really focused on watching his progress last season.
“He’s got a lot of ability and a fantastic range of passing, whilst at the same he’s got athleticism and can dig in. He’s got a great appetite for training and that was central to his thoughts for wanting to join us.
“We believe he has the capability to grab hold of games by the scruff of the neck and help us dictate the tempo. We are delighted he’s on board as he’s another hungry player that’s joined the ranks.”
