Maamria swoops for Sutton

4:30pm Thursday 8th May 2008

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VICS have unveiled Richie Sutton as their first signing of the summer.

The 22-year-old full back switches to the Marston's Arena from demoted Stafford Rangers, whom he skippered during the final weeks of the season.

"He's a player who impresses me," said Maamria.

"Richie is physically strong and has a lot of experience playing at this level.

"Not only that, he is technically very good so will be able to contribute going forward."

Sutton came through the junior ranks at Crewe Alexandra before switching to Stafford on a permanent basis last summer.

He had previously turned out for Rangers on loan during their successful promotion to the Conference National in 2006.

Equally at home at right back or at the heart of the defence, Maamria appears to have him earmarked for the full back berth.

"I wasn't very happy with everyone who played there last season," he said.

"That was part of the reason I changed to a 3-5-2 formation.

"Richie could have stayed at Stafford because they offered him more money, but he chose to come here because he wants to play at a higher level and improve his game."

Sutton's arrival almost certainly spells the end of Michael Bowler's stay at the club.

The former Stockport County utility man signed non contract terms with Vics in January but failed to break into the team.