Phil Edwards accepted a contract offer to join Stevenage in summer 2011 after his deal expired at League Two playoff rivals Accrington Stanley; a club the defender turned out around 200 times for in six years. A highly-rated performer during his time at the Crown Ground, he was a core part of the Stanley side that made the League Two playoffs in 2010-1. Indeed, it was us as his future employers that prevented Accy coming out on top in the race for promotion.

The departure of Luke Foster left a gap to be filled at the Lamex Stadium. Edwards was certainly flexible enough to fulfil those midfield duties in addition to his defensive abilities. And it delighted Graham Westley to capture the player ahead of Boro’s first go at League One. But his time with us came to an end after one season; a lack of first-team chances and a change in management leaving him surplus to Gary Smith‘s requirements.

Phil Edwards: Before Boro’

Edwards started out at the JJB Stadium with Wigan Athletic as a youth. Soon loaned out to Morecambe, he hardly featured during their Conference campaign. A second loan stint at Accrington Stanley proved more fruitful, and ultimately led to a full transfer in 2006.