Town snap up former Gillingham defender

HATTERS have confirmed former Gillingham centre-half Garry Richards as their fifth signing of the summer.

The 26-year-old has agreed a two-year contract at Kenilworth Road which will commence on July 1.

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Richards joins the Town following his release from League Two Gillingham where he made 122 appearances in four years.

A tough, no-nonsense defender, the Romford-born player started his career with Colchester United who he helped earn promotion from League One as runners-up in 2006.

In August 2007, he moved to Southend United for an undisclosed fee, but after just six months and 14 appearances at Roots Hall, he made the move to Priestfield.

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Richards’ first full season with the Gills ended in glory as the Kent club won promotion back to League One following a play-off final victory over Shrewsbury at Wembley with the defender playing a key role at centre-half.

In all the Hatters’ latest recruit has 150 games worth of Football League experience and made 28 appearances last term for Gillingham, scoring three goals before a broken leg curtailed his campaign in early March.

Having made a quick and full recovery from his injury, Richards passed a rigorous medical at the Town’s training ground on Monday afternoon.

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Boss Paul Buckle told the club website of his delight at his fifth capture in 10 days.

He said: “I’m after winners – and Garry is a winner.

“With both Colchester and Gillingham he has had the experience of winning promotion.

“He’s a leader too, and has a real presence in defence. He is strong and powerful .

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“I have said before that I do not want this team to be a soft touch. Garry will make sure of that. I do not want players shirking responsibility – I want my men to stand up for themselves and he epitomises the kind of character I’m looking for in my defence.”

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