JOINT-BOSSES Paul Smith and Ashley Pulisciano have continued to bolster their ranks at Highgate United by capturing the services of two new defenders.
Highly-rated full-back Sam Tye and central defender Sam Oji have signed for the Midland League Premier Division side from Lye Town and Hednesford Town respectively.
Oji’s arrival follows the departure of long-serving centre-half Scott Turner who has joined Midland League Division One outfit Racing Club Warwick.
Tye, who previously had a stint at Stourbridge, was high on the wanted list of Smith, along with former Arsenal and Birmingham City youth player Oji.
Oji has had spells at Doncaster Rovers, Bristol Rovers, Leyton Orient, the now defunct Hereford United, Swedish side Ljungskile SK and Tamworth as well as League of Ireland outfits Limerick and Galway.
Smith believes both signings will provide a massive boost to the Gate defence and revealed he may be on the search for another defender.
“I was confident we would have Scott available to us so his departure is a big blow,” said Smith.
“It was important we got another centre half in straight away and Sam will bring a wealth of experience.
“He is a no-nonsense defender who played more than 40 times for Hednesford last season and it was a huge must that to bring that kind of experience in.
“As for Sam, I have watched him several times over the last 18 months and he is one of the best full-backs in the league.
“He’s slightly different to your average full-back because he’s 6ft 2ins which means he is big and strong.”
