Veteran centre-half Chris Hope joins but defender David Cobb’s short stay is over

EXPERIENCED Football League defender Chris Hope is the latest big name to join St Neots Town.

Veteran centre-half Hope 38, played more than 500 games for Gillingham and Scunthorpe between 1993 and 2006 and has also played for Rushden & Diamonds and Corby Town.

He turned out for Saints during last Wednesday’s 1-1 draw in the friendly against Cambridge United and impressed against Peterborough United on Saturday – a game in which he also scored in.

And manager Dennis Greene is hoping he will have a similar influence to that of ex-Saint Glen Fuff – especially on young centre-back Jordan Gent.

He said: “He was available so came in and played two great games for us.

“For his age, he looks incredibly fit and athletic and he’s going to be a great asset for us.

“He will inspire and be a steadying influence on our young defence and his organisation skills are very impressive.”

Hope is the seventh new addition to the squad for next season, along with Michael Duggan, Adrian Sear, Neil MacKenzie, Max Harradine, Craig Grieve and Peterborough loan man Peter Grant.

However defender David Cobb, who only joined from St Ives Town at the start of pre-season, has been released after failing to make an impact from left-back.

“It just didn’t work out for him at the club and he has left. But he showed a great attitude and I wish him all the best,” said Greene, who also says his squad is now complete.

On Monday night, two goals from Shane Tolley and another from Dan Jacob fired Saints to a 3-2 friendly win over Dagenham & Redbridge.

A mixed St Neots squad will travel to Eynesbury Rovers tomorrow night to contest the Gary Whitbread Memorial Cup (7.30pm), while on Saturday, Chelmsford City are in town (3pm).

Saints then host Arlesey Town on Monday night, kick-off 7.45pm.