He played a prominent role in the National League promotion battle for two teams last season after he was loaned by Stockport to Hartlepool towards the end of the season and scored five goals in four games before then returning to Edgeley Park and featuring for Stockport in the play-off game between the sides.

30-year-old Richie began his career with his home town club Oldham Athletic, and after spells in non-league with Mossley, Northwich and Barrow he joined Carlisle in 2017 and subsequently played for Port Vale before joining Stockport in March 2020.

Matt said on signing Richie: ”He’s a player I’ve been aware of for a while and he caused us problems when he came on in both games against us for Stockport last season. He’s got good experience and character and will be a great addition to the squad on and off the pitch.”

We welcome Richie to the club – he will have the squad number 26.