PORTHMADOG have signed former striker Josh Davies, after a spell playing in New Zealand for Melville United.

His best season in a Port shirt came in 2014/15 when he netted 22 goals in 32 starts, and manager Craig Papirnyk was delighted to get him back in the squad.

“Josh has been playing in New Zealand and had a successful time out there, and I’m absolutely delighted to be bringing him back to the club,” said Papirnyk.

“I’m sure many supporters will remember Josh, he’s a striker of the highest quality at this level and has all the attributes you would look for in a centre forward. I know that he will be great for us, and hopefully play a vital part in climbing out of the position that we are in now.”

Papirnyk was quick off the mark to add to his squad in the January transfer window, with the return of Gareth Jones Evans from Welsh Alliance club Pwllheli.

“Gaz is a familiar player to every one at the club and has spent many years here in the past,” said the Porthmadog boss. “He returned to Pwllheli at the start of the last season and wanted to go and just play his football and enjoy the game.

“He has come back full of confidence, and is a quality player who will bring experience to the team, and a player that gives us options through the midfield.”

Central defender Mike Sharples has also rejoined the club after taking time out from since last season.

“Mike is one of the best centre halves in the league, and he brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the squad," commented the Porthmadog manager.

“I am really happy Mike has decided to come back and help us get out of the position we find ourselves in. Sharps is a top lad, a winner and his quality at the back will be a massive added plus to us.”

Meanwhile Port have agreed with Cefn Druids to keep John Owen for the rest of the season. Papirnyk said: “I'm pleased as John has shown his quality time and time again, and will play a vital part.”

Papirnyk has also confirmed that John Littlemore and Telor Williams have left the club, and Sion Parry, a prolific scorer for the Reserves, has signed for Bangor 1876 in the Gwynedd League.

• Porthmadog manager Craig Papirnyk has also announced that Alun Winstanley will become his new assistant manager, and he is delighted to have him on board.

Winstanley is a current UEFA ‘A’ licence candidate, having completed his cohort in July 2018. He started his coaching career at Wrexham, before taking over the U16s at Prestatyn in the Welsh Premier.Papirnyk said: “He made the step up to senior first team football at Caernarfon for two years, which was a successful period, winning the Cymru Alliance and the League Cup twice, before a move to Conwy where he was assistant manager. Here he helped the club with more success, winning the treble.“Alan has spent last few months as the head of youth and U19’s at Rhyl, and I’m really excited to be working with him. He has a very similar personality to myself and will bring a wealth of experience to aid me and the club to push forward."