AFC Telford United sign Mansfield Town defender Andy Owens

AFC Telford have signed Mansfield Town defender Andy Owens - new manager Liam Watson's ninth signing of the summer.

Owens, 23, who spent last term on loan under Watson at Southport, becomes the fifth ex-Sandgrounders player brought to the Bucks Head.

Watson's first signings were Southport duo Sean Clancy and Simon Grand.

He has also signed two players from promoted Chester - striker Tony Gray and midfielder Matty McGinn - who played under Watson at Haig Avenue.

Telford are also in talks to sign another of Watson's players at Southport last season, former Nottingham Forest and Rochdale defender Neill Byrne.

Watson has also signed another Chester player, Wes Baynes, Skelmersdale United winger Mike Phenix, and two players from AFC Fylde - forward Adam Farrell and winger Sean Cooke.

Owens began his career as a striker before being converted by Watson to play in defence.

Watson took over as Telford boss on 3 May. following the club's relegation back to Conference North.