Chris Stokes Joins the Coasters

AFC Fylde are delighted to announce the signing of defender Chris Stokes who joins the Coasters until the end of the season with an option.

The former Barrow and Forest Green Rovers defender bolsters the ranks at Mill Farm after joining on Friday afternoon.

Stokes came through the academy at Bolton Wanderers before leaving the North West in 2010 to join Forest Green Rovers.

The 33-year-old saw some great success in his five years at Forest Green, receiving calls up for the England C team before moving onto League One side Coventry City in 2015.

In his three-year spell with the Sky Blues, Stokes helped the club to promotion as well as winning the EFL Trophy in 2016/17 before joining Bury. 

A return to Forest Green followed in 2020 before later spells back in the North West with Morecambe and Barrow in League Two.

Now joining the Coasters, the versatile defender adds some much needed experience to our defensive ranks having played well over 300 games.

Speaking on the move, Stokes said: “I’m delighted to be here. It’s been in the pipeline for a while and after speaking to the Manager, I’m delighted to get it over the line.

“I’ve had a look around and it’s really impressive. I’ve played at this level before but I’ve not seen anything like this in terms of the stadium and facilities so it’s a great first impression.

“I’m a no-nonsense defender who enjoys defending which is what I’ve done all my life and it’s the part of the game I really enjoy.”

Head Coach Kevin Phillips added: “We’re absolutely delighted to add Chris to the ranks at Mill Farm. He’s a natural winner who’s had plenty of success throughout his career.

“He’s a versatile defender who adds some much needed experience and the younger lads will learn a lot from playing alongside him.

“He knows the area and is keen to get going straight away so it’s a positive step in the right direction as far as signings are concerned.”

Everyone is delighted to welcome Chris to the club and wishes him all the best during his time at Mill Farm.

 

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