Experienced midfielder joins the club
Bristol Rovers have today completed the signing of midfielder Lee Mansell.
The 31-year-old turned down the chance to stay with Torquay United to come to the Memorial Stadium.
Mansell is Torquay’s most capped player, having made 381 appearances for the Gulls since joining from Oxford United in 2006.
Manager Darrell Clarke said: “I am delighted to bring Lee into my squad, his experience speaks for itself having played for, and captained, Torquay for over 300 games.
“I have been after someone with the experience Lee has got, but also somebody who is still hungry to succeed.
“He is ready for a new challenge, and after meeting with him, it didn’t take me long to be convinced that he will be a massive asset for the season ahead.”
Mansell began his career as a trainee at Luton Town, turning professional in 2000.
He had a spell on loan with Nuneaton Borough in March 2003, scoring twice in five games.
In June 2005 he joined Oxford United and the following summer he moved to Torquay for an undisclosed fee.
In his first year at Plainmoor, Torquay were relegated to the Conference, but Mansell played an integral role in their return to the Football League in 2009.
In 2010 Mansell, who can also play at right back, was made captain - a position he retained until he left this summer.
Chairman Nick Higgs said: “I am delighted to welcome Lee to Bristol Rovers.
“He has experience in League Two and the Conference, which is exactly what we need in midfield.
“The squad is taking shape nicely in readiness for the start of pre-season and the challenge we face in the coming season.”