ACCRINGTON Stanley have completed a double transfer swoop on the eve of tomorrow's derby with Rochdale, by signing right back Michael Nottingham from League One rivals Blackpool.

The experienced stopper has joined the Reds on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

And, after securing goalkeeper Nathan Baxter on a season-long loan from Chelsea, manager John Coleman was delighted to bolster his backline with Nottingham, after biding his time for the 6ft 4ins versatile defender.

"Michael Nottingham is someone we have tracked all summer fits the bill for what we want, the style we are going to play," said the Stanley boss.

"He is athletic, chips in with goals, good in the air and he can handle the ball. He ticks all the boxes."

The 31-year-old, who joined Blackpool in 2018 after two years with Salford City, said: "I'm delighted and very excited to be here.

"Accrington approached Blackpool for me and I went to meet the manager and he spoke to me about the desire to get me here and what he thought of me and how I can play a big part here. He sold it to me and I wanted to get it done as soon as possible.

"He went into detail about how he wants to take the club forward and he made me feel good about myself and showed how much he really wanted me at the club.

"I've been here a few times in the past and it's a growing club and it's getting better as it goes on.

"I've played against Accrington a few times and it's never an easy game. It's a really hard working squad of players and I feel like I can fit into that and be a part of that."

He added: "I'm hard working, eager to learn, I'm hungry and I'll give everything every single game.

"I want to get myself established in the side as soon as possible and the ultimate goal is to try to do something positive for the club, score goals if I can and keep clean sheets.

"I just want to play as many games as possible and try to help the club progress."

Baxter becomes the club's second Saint Kitts and Nevis international after former striker Lutel James.

The Birmingham-born defender made his international debut in June 2017 and has earned two caps.