Dependable Forest Green Rovers defender Charlie Clough moves to League Two Barnet

Pic: Simon Davies

BARNET have delved back into Non-League to sign Forest Green Rovers defender Charlie Clough for an undisclosed fee.

The League Two Bees signed highly-rated Eastleigh winger Luke Coulson last week and have again opted to bring in fresh legs from below the Football League with Clough.

The reliable centre-half, 26, made 90 appearances for Forest Green in all competitions after joining the club from Sutton United in January 2015.

He made the step up from the Conference South with ease and was a key part of the Rovers team that finished second in the National League last term.

Clough started the promotion final against Grimsby Town at Wembley in May but Rovers were eventually beaten 3-1 as they missed out on a Football League place for the first time in their history.

The big defender played 38 times last season, winning seven man of the match awards as well as being named the Supporters’ Player of the Year.

Clough had missed just three games for Forest Green this term and manager Mark Cooper said: “As a player, Cloughy has improved technically during his time at Forest Green and we wish him all the best.”

Chairman Dale Vince added: “It’s a good opportunity for Charlie and we’re happy to help him take it. Also it’s a good reflection on the club, that players can come here and get opportunities to move up the leagues, we wish him all the best.”