Altrincham have moved to bolster their goalkeeping options by signing former Forest Green Rovers player Harry Isted. The 29-year-old arrives as cover for first-choice keeper Owen Evans, who was injured in a 5-1 defeat to Woking last month and is listed on the club's injuries page. Isted has signed a contract until January 2025.
Manager Neil Gibson confirmed the signing, acknowledging the recent efforts of goalkeeper coach Andy Firth. Firth has played the last three games but cannot sustain the workload alongside his primary duties. "A special mention for Andy Firth, who's played very well in recent games, deputising for Owen Evans," Gibson said. "Andy's a very good goalie at this level, but his role is very much as goalkeeper coach first and foremost."
Isted's experience
Harry Isted brings recent National League experience, having made 30 appearances for Forest Green Rovers last season as they reached the play-offs. He is immediately available for selection and could feature when Altrincham visit bottom side Gateshead on Tuesday, a key match in their fixtures. Isted said his new teammates have been "really welcoming in the short time I've been here" and that he is "looking forward to getting started".
Altrincham's strong run
The move comes as Altrincham, currently 5th in the standings, seek to maintain a strong run of form, having won six of their last seven games. Their next opponents, Gateshead, are struggling at the foot of the table. Forest Green, Isted's former club, currently sit 13th in the National League with 15 points from 11 games. Their recent form reads DDLDW, with a 1-1 draw against Wealdstone last time out. Isted will join Ethan Ross and Andy Firth in the goalkeeping department, adding depth to the squad.
Harry Isted will be in the squad for Altrincham's National League fixture at Gateshead on Tuesday evening.
