Accrington sign Curzon Ashton defender Matthews

Accrington Stanley are 19th in League Two

Accrington Stanley have signed defender Devon Matthews from non-league club Curzon Ashton on a two-and-a-half-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

And midfielder Ben Woods, 22, has signed an improved two-and-a-half-year contract with the League Two club.

Oldham-born Matthews, 25, who began his career in Oldham Athletic's youth system, has been with the Nash since May 2022.

Matthews has given up his sales job to sign a deal with John Doolan's Stanley tying him to the Wham Stadium until June 2027.

"It's a fantastic signing. We are made up with Devon," said assistant manager Ged Brannan. "We have been chasing him all season.

"Me and John Doolan have been to watch him six or seven times this season and he has impressed us every game he has played in. Him and Charlie Caton are the two best players in National League North, so he's only going to strengthen us."

Stanley are 19th in League Two, eight points above the drop zone, having previously made three signings in this January window - Morecambe striker Charlie Brown, Burnley defender Benn Ward and striker Charlie Caton, from National League North leaders Chester.