Chester City have announced the signing of midfielder Ryan Lowe on a free transfer after he was released by Crewe earlier this summer.The 29-year-old - who returns for his second spell at the Deva Stadium after leaving the club in 2006 - made 64 appearances for Crewe, scoring 12 goals.

He becomes the Blues' fifth summer signing following the recent acquisitions of Anthony Barry, Jay Harris, David Mannix and Paul Taylor, and City manager Simon Davies admits he is happy with the way his pre-season plans are coming along.

Davies told the club's official website: "Ryan can play in many different positions. He can fit into a 4-3-3 formation easily and adapt to a 4-4-2 system if required. He can play virtually anywhere which is a massive plus for us.

"He will be good for us. He has a bubbly personality and on the field when he is on the ball his play is exceptional. He gives me many options which is great for selection purposes."

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