Aldershot Town have signed midfielder Damon Lathrope from Torquay United
A combative and industrious midfielder with an excellent range of passing, the 24-year-old began his career at Cambridge United, before completing his scholarship at Norwich City. Having joined Torquay United in July 2010, he made 122 appearances for The Gulls in four years, and became an intergral part of the team which reached the League Two Play-Off Final in 2011, before again finishing in the Play-Off places in 2012. Damon also played eight games for Hereford United in a six-week loan spell at the end of 2013.
“I’ve had some really good times at Torquay United but this is definitely the right time for me for a change, and Aldershot Town is a great club”, said Damon. “The fans always create a great atmosphere and I think we’re going to have a really successful season. (Shots defender) Joe Oastler is one of my best friends in football and he had nothing but good things to say about the club and the staff. It’s a new chapter in my career and I can’t wait to get started.
“I’m a team player and I love winning,” he explained of his playing style. “I do anything to win. I’ve usually played as a defensive midfielder in the last couple of years, but that’s not the only role I can play. My main strength is on the ball, I’m good with both feet and I like to pass the ball. I like to think I can play numerous roles.”
“I’m delighted to sign Damon – there are probably Football League clubs that will be kicking themselves that they haven’t been able to sign him,” said manager Andy Scott. “He did very well at Torquay and was instrumntal in them getting to the Play-Offs. He is an out-and-out defensive midfield player , he’s strong and agressive and a good organiser, and he will enable us to play different players in different formations. He will be a vital cog in our team framework.
“We’re bringing in players at a good age and we’re hopeful that with us they will reach the peak of their abilities. The players have heard good things about the club, how we help them, the squad that we’ve got, the cameraderie amongst the group and the facilities that we provide. That is important to them.”
