Defender to make debut this evening
THE Shrimps have confirmed the signing of central defender Mark Hughes.The 26-year-old has joined the club on a two year deal and is expected to make his debut against Burnley this evening.
Hughes joins from Bury and is to be made the Shrimps' new captain with boss Jim Bentley saying his leadership qualities will be important.
Bentley said: "Mark is a player I have always kept an eye on and I delighted that he has signed for us.
"He has a lot of qualities and is a great talker as well as a good defender and will be an excellent captain for us.''
Hughes started his career at Everton before playing for Northampton and Walsall. He had a spell in Australia with Queensland Fury before moving back to England and joining Bury.
Hughes' debut will come tonight as the Shrimps kick off their pre season campaign against Burnley at the Globe Arena.
Padraig Amond and Danny Carlton are also set to feature alongside right back Luke Denson, a former Tranmere defender.
Looking ahead to the game Bentley said: "We have been back in training for a couple of weeks now and things have been looking good.
"The lads look really sharp but it is all about games and I'm looking forward to coming up against Burnley. They will be tough opponents but that is what you want.
"It's all about fitness and shape and getting the new signings used to our system.''
One player who will be absent is Chris McCready but Bentley is hoping he will be fit for the game against Middlesbrough next week.