Claridge, 45, to play for Gosport

Steve Claridge has decided to come out of retirement to sign for the Southern League side Gosport Borough.

The 45-year-old BBC pundit will be in the side for today's South Hampshire FA Trophy meeting with Sholing. In more than 20 years as a player, Claridge played for 17 clubs, and made more than 1,000 appearances. He has taken on a player/coach role, and will also continue his punditry work.

"There are not many signings that excite me but he can only be an asset," said Gosport manager Alex Pike. "Steve's arrival has already had a great effect in the dressing room as the whole squad at Thursday's training session raised their game. It was a great session. Steve was very impressed by the quality of our players and the club."