Altrincham sign ex-Forest Green keeper Isted

Harry Isted began his career at Luton Town [Shutterstock] Altrincham have signed former Forest Green Rovers goalkeeper Harry Isted as cover for the injured Owen Evans. Evans will be out "for the next few months" having come off in the 76th minute of Altrincham's 5-1 National League defeat by Woking on 12 September, with Andy Firth having taken his place for the past three games. Isted, 29, made 30 National League appearances for Forest Green last season as they reached the play-offs. "Everyone has been really welcoming in the short time I've been here," Isted told the club website. Isted will be available for Tuesday's trip to bottom side Gateshead as Altrincham look to continue a fine run of form that has brought six wins in their past seven games. Manager Neil Gibson added: "A special mention for Andy Firth, who's played very well in recent games, deputising for Owen Evans. Andy's a very good goalie at this level, but his role is very much as goalkeeper coach first and foremost. "Because of that we feel it's too long a period, with Owen's absence, to expect Andy to play week in, week out for the next few months, while also carrying out his other important roles at the club, hence the addition of Harry to the group as we look to continue with our winning run and the positivity built up over recent weeks."