Stockton Town unveil defender as first summer signing

The vastly-experienced defender has spent the last seven seasons with Consett, making 184 appearances for the club.

A Northern League winner at Darlington earlier in his career, Purewal has played higher up the pyramid and featured for the Quakers, Durham City, Blyth Spartans and Whitby Town, as well as having two spells at Bishop Auckland.

The Panjab international took on captaincy duties at Consett ahead of the 2019/20 season and played in all-but-one of their matches as they reached the 2020/21 FA Vase final.

“The ambition of the club attracted me. It’s a club that’s had a great rise and will continue to grow," Purewal said.

“The standard of players I am going to be playing with, they are all quality players. I am looking forward to being part of it and working with Michael [Dunwell] and JD [Briggs].”

Manager Michael Dunwell said: “With the outgoings after the season ended, we were always looking to bring another defender in.

"Once Arj became available, we contacted him. After two minutes of sitting with him and listening, we knew he would fit right in with the squad and how we wanted to progress.

“Arjun has lots of experience. He’s played at this level before so knows what it’s about. He will bring competition for places in that back line, and we will need his experience and leadership going into the new league.”