Ben Purkiss has officially signed for Swindon after days of speculation .The 33-year-old has joined on a free transfer from Port Vale. Purkiss was part of the Vale side who were relegated from League One last year.
Swindon have signed their second defender so far with Chris Robertson also signing. The former Vale captain was linked with a move to SN1 for a few days and it’s now finally been announced. The Sheffield-born defender is David Flitcroft’s fourth signing since taking charge of Swindon.
After the signing was announced Purkiss had some words to say about joining the club. He said, “After coming down to speak to the gaffer (David Flitcroft) and Futch, there was only one place I wanted to sign.” He also added “I’m here to have a successful season with one target in mind. The target this season will be to get promoted.”
Purkiss has had a long career stretching back to 2003. His career started with Sheffield United, however, he never made a first-team appearance. After being released by The Blades he went on to play for Gainsborough Trinity. Purkiss climbed his way up the football pyramid and in 2010 he found himself with Town’s rivals Oxford United. Since his spell at Oxford, Purkiss has gone on to play for Hereford, Walsall and Port Vale. He has racked up over 180 League appearances.
This signing shows that new boss Flitcroft is changing the recruitment policy at Swindon. Town have recently been known as the club which signs young players or non-league players to try and find a gem. Last season this didn’t work and Swindon were relegated and went down without a fight. However, under Flitcroft two of the four signings are 30 or over.
What can he offer?
The right-back was described as an ” Athletic footballer who likes to get forward and join in” by Chris Wilder. Many fans of his previous clubs have also said that he likes to get forward. The 33-year-old will bring experience to the side and will not be afraid to take a risk which could help Town. His experience will help Swindon alot as he can use it to help guide through younger players. Furthermore, to get promoted from League Two you need some experienced heads to help compete.
