March Town manager Ashley Taylor praises 'marquee signing' of Sam Murphy

March Town boss Ashley Taylor has labelled the capture of Sam Murphy a statement of intent ahead of the 2022/23 season.

The Hares announced the central midfielder’s arrival last week. He has made more than 200 appearances for the Fenmen, and has also turned out for the likes of Spalding United and Stamford.

He was part of the Wisbech side that was relegated from the Pitching In Northern Premier League Midlands Division last season.

His highlights included a long-range screamer in a 5-1 win against Histon Town.

Taylor believes his addition will prove to be ‘absolutely massive’ as March go into their debut campaign in the United Counties League.

“We wanted to make a marquee signing, and he’s definitely that,” he told the Citizen.

“He’s a player that I’ve admired for a long time. I’ve watched him plenty of times, so for us to be able to capture him shows the direction we’re going in as a football club.

“It’s a massive signing and I can’t wait to get him involved and start working with him.

“He’s got a good pedigree at that level of football and above. He’s been playing Step 4 for quite a while.

“Having that experience is massive, but ability-wise he can receive, play and he gets around the pitch well.

“Physicality and size is a big thing in the UCL, and he’s played in that league before and knows it.”

Taylor hopes to add another major addition to his ranks within the next week.

He confirmed that it is an attacking player, and his arrival should be announced after the Hares return for pre-season training next Monday.

“Again, it’s another exciting signing,” he added.

“He was playing at a high level last season. It’s not 100% yet, but it’s very close.”

The March manager had set his sights on making five signings before their friendly schedule begins with trips to Yaxley and Thetford Town on July 2 and 5.

After nailing down Murphy’s services so early, he is excited to get back on the pitch and train with his squad again.

“The lads are ready to go. We want to get back and start working,” he said.

“The aim is to get the team in the best possible shape we can do, so that come that first game we’re ready.

“There will be a little bit of experimenting over the games. Obviously results are important, but the main thing is finding the best possible squad that we can have.

“I’m looking forward to it. There’s a real buzz about it, and we can’t wait to get going now.”