BROMSGROVE Sporting have made a quartet of statement signings ahead of the new season – as well as retaining the services of a number of key players including star striker Mikey Taylor.

Rouslers boss Brendan Kelly has boosted his defence by signing Kidderminster Harriers loanee Harry Higginson on a permanent basis as well as bringing in right-back Josh Ezewele from Stourbridge.

He has also captured Chris Lait from Southern Premier Central rivals Tamworth and former Football League striker Jamie Gray.

But the news that will excite Rouslers fans the most is that Taylor – the league’s leading scorer last season with 24 goals – has turned down offers from elsewhere to remain at the Victoria Ground.

Boss Kelly admitted: “It’s huge for us. Mikey was in his own league for goalscoring last term and we knew he would attract attention.

“He’s had very handsome offers from clubs, including in the league above, but he’s staying. It’s great news for the club and the squad.”

Bromsgrove have also retained midfielder Gift Mussa, wingers Will Shorrock and Charlie Dowd, new skipper Tom Taylor and his central defensive partner Leon Broadhurst.

Goalkeeper Dan Platt, defender Jack Wilson, midfield pair Josh Quaynor and Nathan Hayward, utility men Kieren Westwood and Liam Spink and youngsters Nathan Binner, Tom Massey, Max Beardmore and Jake Marsden have all committed their futures to Bromsgrove too.

Of the new signings, centre-back Higginson will be a familiar face to Sporting supporters, having spent much of the past two seasons on loan at Bromsgrove from Kidderminster.

Kelly added: “Harry really enjoyed his time with us during his loan spells and when he played, he was excellent in my opinion. He’s young, strong, eager to learn and a pleasure to work with.”

Of former Alvechurch full-back Ezewele, Kelly added: “He’s a superb talent and what impressed me most was how keen he is to play for us.”

Irish forward Gray, 22, made more than 20 appearances for Stevenage in League Two and Kelly said: “Jamie is an extremely clever and talented lad. He offers us a different dimension within the squad.”

And of former AFC Telford United and Solihull Moors man Lait, the manager said: “Laity is a class act in my view – a match winner, who can turn a game on its head.

“I’ve tried to sign him twice before, so this is third time lucky. I’m delighted to have him on board – well and truly a proven player at this level.”