Redditch United boss Gary Whild has signed highly rated youngster Matt Blair from Bedworth United.

He made his debut in the rearranged league game at Solihull Moors last night (Tuesday) which Redditch won 2-1.

The 20-year-old wide-man has been the subject of plenty of interest from higher league clubs after starring in Bedworth’s FA Cup campaign this season.

But Whild has got his man, along with fellow forward Joszef Jakab from Stratford Town, who made his debut from the bench in the 1-0 FA Trophy win at Leigh Genesis.

Jakab has plenty of experience at Conference North level after playing for Solihull Moors and Whild said the two players will be welcome additions to the squad.

He said: “Joszef did well when he came on at Leigh and helped turn the game for us and Matt is a player with plenty of talent.

“I was looking to fill the gap left by James Dance’ departure and I see Matt filling that role. “There were plenty of clubs after him but he has decided to come here and hopefully will fit in well.”

Whild was pleased with the win at Leigh, a result which earned Redditch a trip to Unibond Premier outfit Guiseley in the first round on Saturday December 12,

It was a game of few chances, and Leigh missed a penalty, but Whild said thegame was always going to be difficult.

He said: “It wasn’t pretty - the conditions were terrible and it wasn’t a great game - but we won which was the main thing and against a team that have had a very good run.”

Jamie Sheldon got the winner when he came on as substitute and Whild said it was the changes which probably swung the game in Redditch’s favour.

He added: “Jamie and Joszef definitely made a difference when they came on as we were running out of ideas, and although they had a penalty, which I thought was harsh, we were fairly comfortable in the end.

“Guiseley will be another tough game, away from home but it is another one where we have to set our stall out just to go there, do the job and get the win.”

Redditch are at home to Blyth Spartans on Saturday (3pm).