Spalding United have agreed terms with Grantham Town striker Jordan Hempenstall – and could give him a debut against Norton United tomorrow (Saturday, 3pm).
The former Coalville Town ace has been the number one striking target for Tulips chief Pat Rayment for some time now and a seven-day notice of approach went in last week.
He’s the second Grantham player to make the switch to Spalding this month, following midfielder Jack McGovern to the Sir Halley.
It means Rayment is now flush with striking options ahead of Saturday’s Evo-Stik League Division One South clash with Norton.
Jordan Nuttell, Tom Waumsley and Ryan Oliver are all vying for a start, while Andrew Tidswell could return from a hamstring problem.
Rayment welcomes the selection headache – and is looking forward to seeing Hempenstall in action.
He said: “I can confirm that we’ve agreed terms with Jordan Hempenstall. We’re just waiting on some paperwork now, but all being well he will be in the squad against Norton.
“We’ve wanted to bring Jordan here for a while now and I’m pleased we’ve been able to get this one over the line.
“He’ll bring bags of ability to the squad, but I’m fully aware that I know have five strikers wanting to play here.
“Nobody comes to this club with a guarantee of starting. I wouldn’t have it any other way – and Jordan knows that.
“Tom Waumsley is top scorer for us this season, but has only started seven games.
“Young Jordan Nuttell has made a good impact since coming here too and Ryan Oliver has scored some impressive goals lately.
“Then we’ve got Andrew Tidswell to come back – and everyone knows how good he is.
“It’s a great problem to have.”
Meanwhile, winger Matt Kennedy’s short stint with the Tulips is over. Signed from Boston Town just a few weeks ago, Rayment has released him and he’s expected to join Louth Town.
Young midfield duo George Stainfield and Lewis McKue have also left the Sir Halley on short term deals. Stainfield has joined Pinchbeck United, while McKue is off to UCL Division One side Bourne Town.
Rayment sees long-term futures for the pair at Spalding, but wants them to get more game time.
