Eastbourne Borough are delighted to announce the signing of Pierce Bird on a permanent deal.

After joining on an initial one-month loan from AFC Fylde in January, the defender impressed at Priory Lane and his stay was extended to the end of the season.

Bird made 13 appearances in all last season, with one goal – and what a goal it was against Maidstone United.

“We are really happy Pierce has decided to stay with us,” said boss Adam Murray.

“He knows our style of play perfectly and I was very keen to get him tied down.

“He showed his quality and importance to the team towards the end of last season and played a big part in our survival.”

Bird, 25, is a former Northern Ireland Under 21 international and played a key part in AFC Fylde’s National League North title winning season in 2022/23.

He was a virtual ever-present for Murray as the Coasters saw off King’s Lynn Town to reach the top-flight of non-league football.

And he will be looking for similar success this term as the Sports will hope to continue 2024/25 in the same form they ended the last campaign.