SWINDON Town has announced the signing of goalkeeper Emmanuel Idem on a free transfer.

As reported by Adver Sport last week, Ben Garner's men have brought in a goalkeeper first with Jojo Wollacott now away with Ghana at the African Cup of Nations for at least the next three weeks.

Swindon's number two, Lewis Ward, will likely step up into the starting XI for the upcoming period - with his first match since a 2-1 defeat to Colchester United in the second round of the EFL Trophy back in November expected to be this Friday against Manchester City in the FA Cup third round.

As with the majority of the playing squad brought in this season, Swindon have not disclosed the length of the contract signed by Idem.

In a statement on the club's website, Town said: "Having had spells in the Academy with both Stoke City and Aston Villa, he went on to play half a season in League Two with Macclesfield Town, catching the eye before eventually being snapped up by Derby County.

"After departing Pride Park last summer, Idem has spent the last couple of weeks on trial at The County Ground, and he has impressed with his shot-stopping ability and his superb technique with the ball at his feet.

Speaking to Swindon Town's media team after signing his contract, Idem expressed his delight at signing for the Robins.

He said: “It has been a rough two weeks from when I first came here because of the whole Covid situation, but I’m buzzing to finally get it done and it is now time to crack on and get back to work.

“The playing style here matches my playing style because I like to have the ball a lot, and I know a few of the lads here from when I was at Aston Villa and everyone has said it is a good club and a big club.

“I like to think my best attributes are having the ball at my feet, I like to play a lot of football and it fits in well with how the manager wants to play, so that is a good thing on my part.”

Town fans should get their first glimpse of 6'2 Idem - who is yet to play a professional match in the EFL - on Friday night against Manchester City when the London-born 23-year-old is expected to be named on the bench as the club's back-up stopper.