Ward's golden boot united!

If National League Solihull don't follow up on their reported interest in Malbon, the joint golden boot winners in EVO-STIK NPL First Division South last season with 28 goals apiece could combine for the 2016-17 campaign after Keen signed on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old, who can also play in midfield, helped his former club to a top half finish last season. Athletic manager Pete Ward told the club's fans he is delighted to add him to his squad at the Novus Stadium after the summer arrivals of Ryan Austin and Dave Artell to strengthen his defence.

Ward said: “Luke is a great signing for us. His goal-scoring record is fantastic and I’ve been a great admirer of him over the last six seasons or so.

"We’re really pleased to get this one over the line, it’s a testament to the ambition we’re showing to attract players of Luke’s ability to the club.”

Ex-Northampton, Port Vale and Crewe Alexandra defender Artell arrived after a spell in Welsh football. The 35-year-old, an international with Gibraltar, captained Crewe to play-off success in the Football League and was Grove’s sixth signing of the summer.

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