We are delighted to announce the signing of Ali Hayder from Nantwich Town.

The 19-year-old came through the Stoke City academy that saw him make over 40 appearances in the U18 Premier League and also play in the FA Youth Cup. A spell at Macclesfield followed before joining Nantwich earlier in the season.

Hayder, who plays mainly off the left, but can play behind a forward or on the right, was called up by Iraq last year and made his senior national debut against Jordan in October 2023, becoming the second youngest ever debutant for Iraq at the time. He was also part of the Iraq under 23s training squad in the run up to the Paris Olympics.

We now look forward to seeing Ali in action in a Heys shirt. Welcome to Adie Moran Park.