THREE more Non-League players have moved into the Football League as clubs continue to monitor the National League and below for the latest up-and-coming star.
Tranmere centre-back Michael Ihiekwe and Kidderminster Harriers forward Arthur Gnahoua have earned moves to League One while Woking striker Gozie Ugwu will start next season in League Two.
Ihiekwe had played for Tranmere for three years, sticking with the club after their relegation into the National League. His final Rovers appearance came at Wembley as Micky Mellon’s side lost 3-1 in the promotion final to Forest Green.
The 24-year-old has been snapped up by Rotherham United, recently relegated into League One, after his Tranmere contract came to an end.
Tranmere boss Mellon said: “Michael has had a good season for us so I’m not surprised he has had the opportunity to move up the divisions.
“We’re always happy to develop players who move upwards from us as that’s a great credit to the Club and people who are here, as it shows we’ve improved them.”
Gnahoua will be playing against Ihiekwe next season after the forward signed an initial one-year deal with Shrewsbury Town.
He scored 19 times in 60 appearances for Kidderminster after signing 18 months ago and jumps three divisions to join the Shrews after rejecting the offer of a new Harriers deal.
“Hopefully I can get the chance to prove I can play at this level,” he said. “It’s going to be hard work and a faster tempo than before.”
The third Non-League ace making the step up is Ugwu, who netted scored 17 National League goals for Woking last season.
He was also out of contract and the 24-year-old has signed a two-year deal with League Two outfit Chesterfield, recently relegated from League One.
Spireites boss Gary Caldwell said: “I have been very impressed with his physical attributes and ability to score goals.
“It’s a big challenge for him now, but he’s played in the Football League before so he understands what it takes to succeed. He is someone I can see making a real impact.”
