Mansfield born James Perch has finally put on the shirt of his hometown team having signed for the Stags following the full seeing of his contract through after two years at Scunthorpe United.

Perch, now 34 played over 200 games for Nottingham Forest before joining Premier League Newcastle United in 2010 where he appeared a total of 81 times before moving to Wigan Athletic and Queens Park Rangers forging out a solid career in the top two levels of English football.

Having joined the Irons in 2018 Perch played 81 times for Scunthorpe who were relegated from League One to League Two last year finishing a place above Mansfield in 20^th prior to lockdown as the season was cut short in March.

A player that can fill a variety of positions Perch is no stranger to Referees with his tough tackling and no nonsense fiery character sure to be a hit with home fans at the One Call Stadium next season.

Best used as a full back or central midfielder Perch can also play as a centre half and will suit his Manager Graham Coughlan tactically as he looks for adaptable players to fit into his system next season.

Coughlan stated on the capture of his ninth summer signing “Being born in Mansfield, he won’t need educating on our club or our DNA. He will be great for our young lads to learn from both on and off the pitch.”

“His experience of playing at a higher level will help us raise standards around the football club.”

*Main image @mansfieldtownfc Perch will offer vital experience to the Stags Armour.