Ilkeston sign ex-Premier League defender

Perch enjoyed an impressive 19-year career in the Premier League and EFL, making over 500 appearances as a professional.

He spent much of his early career at Forest, featuring over 200 times for the club.

The 37-year-old went on to enjoy time across the football league and was most recently with Mansfield in League Two.

Discussing his arrival, Ilkeston boss Ian Deakin said: “James is a significant signing for the football club. He is a constant professional in everything he does.

“From an early age, we were at Forest together. His attitude and application since then is a credit to himself.

“He’s been a wonderful player over a long time and his longevity is frightening. We’re really looking forward to have him at the club. He will add experience, quality and steel to our side.

"His leadership skills are something that we will need going forward, especially in a league as tough as this.

“We’re delighted to have James on board, it’s a really big signing for us, and I’m sure he’ll settle in with the lads well.”

He joins an Ilkeston side currently ninth in the Northern Premier League.

They are now under the guidance of Deakin, who was appointed as Gary Hayward's successor earlier this week.

Photo credit: Ilkeston Town