VERSATILE Matt Pearson is ready to kick-start his career with Accrington Stanley after reunited with John Coleman and Jimmy Bell.

The Reds’ management duo signed the defensive midfielder from Blackburn Rovers during their spell in charge of Rochdale.

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That was three years ago, and in the meantime the 21-year-old has been forced to drop down into non-league with AFC Halifax, after struggling to earn his place at Spotland when Keith Hill returned for a second spell in charge.

Pearson, a product of Rovers’ academy, is ready for a fresh start in the Football League after signing a one-year deal to become Stanley’s second summer signing.

“I was at Blackburn from nine-years-old until I was 18 and then I went to Rochdale with John and Jimmy (Bell),” he said.

“Unfortunately they got the sack and I didn’t see anything (of the first team) again and went to Halifax, on loan at first.

“Halifax got promoted to the Conference and I signed a two-year deal and we got to the play-offs the season before last.

“I always wanted to return to professional football as it’s every boy’s dreams to be a professional footballer.”

Pearson explained he had to juggle part-time football with a job.

“I have been working on the side as a joiner as Halifax are a part-time club and I wanted to get back into full-time football as soon as possible,” he said.

“I have been given the opportunity again and I want to take it.”

Pearson, who hails from Keighley, made more than 80 appearances in the Conference for AFC Halifax, scoring a total of six goals – an area of his game he is looking to improve on. But he hopes his versatility will be a strength for Stanley.

“I can play right back, centre defence, centre midfield and left back,” he told the club’s official website.

“Mainly for Halifax, I was centre midfield and my game is more about defending. I am a committed player and will give my all.

“It’s nice to know I have signed a contract and I can rest until we return for pre-season. I know of Dean Winnard, he was quite a few years older than me at Blackburn, and I knew he had gone to Accrington.

“I don’t know any other players but I am looking forward to getting to know them all.

“I can’t wait now.”