EASTLEIGH have announced the permanent signing of defender Richard Brindley following his departure from Notts County.

Brindley, 31, has been with Notts County since 2019 and was part of their side that earned promotion to the football league during the 2022/23 campaign.

He made 27 appearances in League Two last season, starting the season as first-choice with seven wins in their first 11 fixtures. 

Brindley brings with him 153 matches of experience from the English Football League, in addition to 138 appearances in the National League.

Upon joining the Spitfires, Brindley said: “I’m really happy. I’m glad to get the deal sorted and I’m looking forward to it."

During his time with Notts County, the versatile defender played 147 times. Norwich-born Brindley began his career playing for Norwich City’s academy.

After spending nine years in their youth system, he penned his first pro-deal with the club in 2011.

Brindley moved to Chelmsford City in 2012 and spent a year there before moving to Chesterfield.

Following a brief stint with the Derbyshire club, Brindley made another move. This time, to Rotherham United where he spent two years.

During his stint at Rotherham, Brindley made appearances in the Championship as well as League One.

After a successful loan spell at Colchester United during the 2014/15 season, Brindley made a permanent move to the club and spent two years there.

He then spent one campaign at Barnet, followed by a season with Bromley before moving to Notts County.

Brindley's latest move to Eastleigh is subject to FA and National League approval. Eastleigh have labelled the defender as a right-back.

The Spitfires hope to make further additions to the squad and are confident of landing the next one soon. 

Brindley could feature when former Saint Kelvin Davis welcomes Southampton to Silverlake Stadium next week in a pre-season friendly.

Saints travel to their local neighbours on Friday, July 19, with tickets now on general sale in the Eastleigh end.

Tickets are priced at £15 for an adult with concessions £10 or less - with Saints boss Russell Martin set to take a first team squad.