Nationwide Conference side Forest Green Rovers have secured the services of former Morecambe defender John Hardiker on a permanent deal.

The Preston-born player started his career as a trainee with Morecambe and got his debut at 16 years of age.

He then went on to play for Stockport and Bury before returning to Morecambe on loan.

The 24-year-old was on a temporary loan deal from Fleetwood Town and manager Jim Harvey was sufficiently impressed to offer him a contract that will run until the end of the season.

Meanwhile, Harvey has revealed that he will be looking to further strengthen his squad in the transfer window.