MARK Collier has pulled off a major transfer coup ahead of tomorrow’s big FA Cup tie with the signing of a player recently released from the Premier League.

Left-back Chris Stokes left Bolton Wanderers in the summer, having spent some of last season on loan at League Two Crewe, making two appearances.

The 19-year-old was skipper in the youth ranks at the Reebok Stadium and has been capped by England at under 17 level.

Born in Frome, the youngster has returned to the south west in a bid to rebuild his fledgling career and Collier believes the Webb’s Wood Stadium offers the perfect venue to do so.

“He’s been looking to get back into the game and had a trial at Walsall recently,” said Collier.

“His dad lives in Trowbridge and has been looking for a club for him around here. I told him the only way he’ll get noticed is by playing regular football and we offer the ideal platform for that, having taken on lots of lads that have been released before.

“Chris came to watch us last week and liked what he saw so he’ll come and help us out and hopefully we can help him get back to where he wants to be.”

All the paperwork should be complete in time for Stokes to make his debut against Hungerford.