We are pleased to announce the signing of defender Zaine Francis-Angol on loan from Hartlepool United until the end of the season, the club’s third and final signing on deadline day.
Zaine, an Antigua and Barbuda international, has worked with manager Dave Challinor twice previously at Hartlepool and at AFC Fylde, and is capable of playing at left-back or left-wing-back.
Having come through the ranks at Tottenham Hotspur as a teenager, Zaine’s first-team career began north of the border at Motherwell, making his debut in a Champions League Qualifying tie with Panathinaikos and going on to make over 50 appearances for the SPL side.
He spent time with Kidderminster Harriers in the National League before first linking up with Challinor at newly promoted Flyde in 2017, signing a two-and-a-half year deal.
In each of his two seasons at the Club he helped the side reach the play-offs in the National League, losing the final in 2019 to Salford City, whilst also winning the FA Trophy that same year.
He went on to enjoy spells at Accrington Stanley and Boreham Wood before once again joining up with Challinor at Hartlepool last April on a short-term deal, helping the side win promotion to the Football League via the play-offs. His performances at the back end of last season saw him earn a new deal at the Suit Direct Stadium, and he has gone on to make 22 appearances for the club in all competitions so far this campaign.
First-team manager Dave Challinor said:
“It’s great to be able to Zaine into the squad. He’s someone I know very well from my time at Hartlepool and Fylde, and who knows not only myself but other members of the squad and management team. He is used to playing in important games, and has already had success with me at my two previous clubs.”
*Cover Photo Credit: MI News & Sport.
