Pic: Rick Matthews
FORMER Wrexham and Chester central defender Blaine Hudson will be playing Champions League football next season after signing for Welsh champions The New Saints.
Hudson is only 25 but has plenty of experience in the National League having played for Cambridge United, Welling United, Wrexham and most recently Chester.
The big defender made 32 appearances for the Blues last term but was released at the end of the campaign after just a year at the Deva Stadium.
His move to Chester followed two seasons across the border with Wrexham, playing in the 2015 FA Trophy final for the Red Dragons.
Hudson has now returned to Wales, putting pen to paper on a professional deal with Craig Harrison’s side, who will enter the Champions League first qualifying round next month.
The defender told the club’s website: “I have been living in the area and have followed The New Saints results for quite a while.
“I’ve got quite a few mutual friends with Craig and soon as I knew he was interested, I got in touch and said I was also interested about signing.
“I want to get settled somewhere now. I had two years at Wrexham and then the season at Chester but that wasn’t really handled properly.
“I’m used to heading the ball more than kicking it in the Conference so I’m looking forward to the way Craig’s teams play.”
Boss Harrison added: “Blaine has been playing locally for quite a while and has lots of Conference experience. He was at Chester last year and was one of their best players.
“It’s a real good signing for us. He brings a lot of experience but he’s still only 25. He’ll bring some real leadership qualities too.”
