Former Leeds United and Wigan Athletic full-back calls Chesterfield move 'perfect' and 'real privilege'

The left-back, 27, who was a free agent after leaving Major League Soccer side Montreal, has penned a contract until summer 2027.

The defender came through the ranks at Everton and Leeds United before Paul Cook signed him for the Latics, going on to make more than 100 appearances and winning the League One title with Tom Naylor. And Pearce made it clear Cook was a big reason why he decided to join the Spireites on an 18-month deal.

He explained: “I came back from the MLS in October time and then spoke to a few different clubs and then obviously Chesterfield got in contact. Obviously speaking with the gaffer and the staff, I just thought this was the perfect move in my career. I’m really looking forward to it and happy to be here. Chesterfield was the only club for me and having a chance to play under the gaffer again, it is a real privilege.”

Pearce’s arrival suggests fellow left-back Lewis Gordon could be out for a quite some time with a quad injury, which would have left Town with only Adam Lewis in that position. Pearce reportedly had interest from Reading, Barnsley and Shrewsbury Town.

He becomes the sixth signing in this window, following the signatures of Malik Owolabi-Belewu, Freddie Ladapo, Sam Curtis, Sil Swinkels and Sammy Braybrooke.

Chesterfield were not in action last weekend after their home game against Colchester United was postponed due to frozen pitch. Their next match sees league leaders Bromley, who have won seven in a row, visit the SMH Group Stadium this Saturday (12.30pm kick-off) and Pearce could make his debut in that one.

The transfer window closes at 7pm on February 2. The Blues are thought to be exploring the possibility of turning Will Dickson's loan from Manchester City into a permanent move.