We are pleased to confirm the signing of 23-year-old Owen Gallacher on a free transfer until the end of the season.

Formerly of Nottingham Forest and Burton Albion, the left-back or winger was released by Crawley Town on Deadline Day with a view to picking up a new club as a free agent.

Gallacher came through the youth setups at Newcastle United and Forest before making the move to Burton Albion in September 2020. Earlier this season, he made eleven appearances on loan at Gateshead.

On his arrival, manager Paul Hurst said: “We tried to sign Owen at the start of the National League season but he chose to stay in the Football League with Crawley, which we understood.

“When he was available, we felt it was too good an opportunity to turn down. We’ve obviously got a couple of left backs, but he can also play left wing-back and left wing. He’s slightly different from Danny Amos and Anthony Glennon and he maybe gives us another option wider.

“He’s quite versatile and he’s a good age. He hasn’t played loads but he’s certainly played some League One games and I know that he had a really good spell when he was playing.

“Hopefully, he can come in, there’s no promises of game-time or anything like that but he’s willing to take the challenge up to see if he can force his way into the side.

“Also, looking at the bigger picture, we can look towards next season as well and it’s a chance to try and earn a contract from that point of view. I like that there’s something there for the player to fight for and be hungry about, so hopefully he can do well.”

Gallacher himself added: “I terminated my contract with Crawley Town and since then I’ve been in contact with the gaffer here. I liked everything he said, it sounds really good, and I’m looking forward to getting started.

“The spell I had at Gateshead earlier this season was really good. It was nice to get back up North as I’ve been away for a long time. It was nice to get back up there and enjoy my football. The game-time was good and I’m ready to crack on again.

“I’m pretty fast, direct and I like to get involved in the attack. I’ll just work hard and give everything. I’m looking forward to pushing on and playing in front of the fans with the team. Hopefully we can get as many points as we can and try to make the Play-Offs.”

UTM