Experienced Gardner joins Hyde as Tigers make double signing

Gardner began his career in the youth setup at Celtic, before making over 200 EFL appearances for the likes of Chesterfield, Tranmere Town and Wigan Athletic.

Having started his career at Droylsden, Gardner progressed up through the leagues and joins the club from Radcliffe, where he spent one season.

“I’m really looking forward to getting started,” the 36-year-old said.

“This is my first time working with Cleggy [manager Michael Clegg], but I know lots of players who have played under him and they can’t speak highly enough.”

The Greater Manchester side have further bolstered their ranks with the acquisition of another midfielder, Ben Hough, from Warrington Rylands.

Hough, 23, has history with manager Clegg, having played under him at both Ashton United and Warrington Rylands. 

He leaves Rylands in the wake of their agonising play-off final defeat to Hednesford Town last month.

On the move, Hough said: “I felt like it was time to move on from Rylands, and Cleggy is someone I know well having worked with him at Rylands and Ashton.”

Discussing his new additions, Tigers boss Clegg said: ”Ben is someone I have worked with before, so I know what I'm getting with him so I'm delighted that he agreed to come.

”Dan is a top, top player. I watched him a few times last year for Radcliffe, and he’s still a very good footballer.

“The fact he lives just up the road really helps, and he will bring that leadership and experience to the group.”