Defender Chris Stokes joins Barrow after successful trial
Chris Stokes inks five-month contract with Barrow Credit: None
Barrow have bolstered its defence with the signing of experienced defender Chris Stokes on an initial five-month contract.
The 33-year-old, who has been training with the squad during pre-season, steps in as a centre-back following the absence of captain Niall Canavan due to injury.
Stokes, boasting over 400 professional appearances, brings a wealth of experience to the Bluebirds.
His career includes stints at Coventry City, Kilmarnock FC, and Forest Green Rovers.While at Kilmarnock, Stokes played a role in the club's promotion to the Scottish Premiership, working alongside current Barrow player Dean Campbell.
Stokes began his professional journey over 14 years ago with a loan spell at Crewe Alexandra from Bolton Wanderers, where he came through the youth ranks. He also represented England's youth teams during his time at Bolton.
After leaving Bolton in 2010, Stokes made a significant impact at Forest Green and Coventry City, racking up 228 league appearances over eight seasons. He later played for Stevenage Town and Bury FC before moving to Scotland in 2021.
Commenting on his move to Barrow, Stokes said: “The club has done really well over the past two, three seasons in this division and it’s a great club to be at so when it came up it was an exciting opportunity for myself.
“You never know when you’re coming on trial what it’s going to be like, how long you’re in for and things like that so I was just taking it day by day at the start and the longer it went on, the more I wanted to sign.”
