Ashford United have confirmed the signing of Gibraltar international defender Jamie Bosio.

The 23-year-old Dublin-born left-back is a member of the islanders’ squad, who made their first appearance this season in the European Championship.

He featured in the side beaten 7-0 by Germany last month and now joins Paul Chambers' squad ahead of the new season.

Student teacher Bosio, who has also played in the Europa League and Champions League, is due to link up with United in early September having signed on-loan from Gibraltar Premier Division side Lincoln Reds.

He has moved to England to complete his studies, at the University of Kent.

Club owner Don Crosbie said: “I know Jamie’s agent Derek Dawkins who contacted me about him.

“He could have played in the Conference but that means the prospect of getting home in the early hours after midweek games and he wants to concentrate on finishing his diploma.”

Mr Crosbie again refuted suggestions he was funding a large budget ahead of United’s third tilt at winning the Southern Counties League title this season, having finished runners-up twice in the last two seasons.

He said: “People talk about ‘big-spending United’ and I see that as a compliment.

“These boys are not on big money and are here because they want to play with their mates and each other."