Midfielder Harry Pell is the first signing for the 2021/22 season – and he joined Accrington Stanley thanks partly to a conversation with former striker Billy Kee!
The 29-year-old first played against the Reds for Hereford in 2011, before also coming up against John Coleman’s side with AFC Wimbledon and Cheltenham Town.
The 6ft 4” player’s last club was Colchester United where he was club captain and he left this summer.
“A long phone call with Billy Kee was instrumental in me coming here," said Pell, who has signed a three-year deal with the Reds.
“I know Billy through hating each other on the pitch and I had a beer with him at one point!
“He is a great lad and funny enough I can remember the House Party app and before I knew it Sean McConville was in there!
"I hated playing against Accrington, those two were a nightmare to play against, and I'm looking forward to playing alongside Sean.
“I know what the club represents and I would like to think that I would fit in here perfectly. I want to meet the boys and make this place feel like home.
“I am a committed player, that’s one thing I put against my name, I'm looking forward to getting in among League One and putting myself about and hopefully adding a few goals to the team.”
He admits he is hoping to create new happy memories at the Wham Stadium as his last few haven't been the best!
“Every time I have come here, I have hated playing here, coming up against the gaffer’s teams. They are high energy, horrible to play against, loads of enthusiasm and I think that’s why I will get on here.
“I have seen the way the team have played and I am looking to come in here and stamp a bit of my own authority on it and looking to add to what the gaffer has going on here.
“When I knew Accrington Stanley was interested, I came down here and was blown away by what the club is trying to do, the way they are trying to do it and the togetherness is key for me.
“It’s something I have taken time to think about as it’s a big move for me and my family, it’s one I am really excited about.”
As well as McConville, Pell also knows Cameron Burgess from their time together at Cheltenham.
“I played with Cam at Cheltenham, we got promotion together, and had a really good year and I have spoke to him about moving down here.
“I am known for goals and I don’t shy away from a tackle. I want to add to what the team has done this season as, by all accounts, they have been terrific and I can’t wait for pre-season.”
The full first interview video with Harry Pell is available to watch on the club's official YouTube channel, CLICK HERE to find out more!