VERSATILE defender Callum Hart has swapped life in the Conference ranks to rejoin his longest-serving club packed with fond memories.

The Welshman, 29, terminated his contract at Sutton United, where he was last term, to pursue a new start at reformed Salisbury FC.

Hart, who lives in the city centre, is set for a heartwarming return when the club unveils him in front of hundreds of supporters at home to AFC Totton on Saturday (3pm).

As well as playing a key role in the Wessex Premier, he will coach at Steve Claridge’s Football Foundation.

At the academy, based in Moneyfields, Hart will be coaching youngsters and doing his UEFA badges.

Commenting on the move, Hart, who turned down a deal at a Conference Premier outfit this week, told JournalSport: “I’m still disappointed about what happened before and it’s basically like coming home.

“The coaching side Steve and I talked about appeals to me as I want to do my coaching badges. I’m kind of looking long-term as well.”

“To learn under Steve is an exciting prospect for me as he’s played at the highest level and has very good knowledge of the game.”

“It’s good to be back.

“It’s a family club which is close to me. I’ve lived in Salisbury for four years and it’s just a really friendly club.

“Sutton was great as well and I wish them all the best but the opportunity arose to come back to Salisbury.

“I’ve taken a big pay cut to come back.”

Hart first moved to the Ray Mac in 2011 from Bath City under Darrell Clarke.

That season he helped the club move up the non-league tiers, with promotion from Southern Premier to Conference South, and two years on (2012-13) he was part of the side which won promotion to the élite level of non-league after a three-year exile.

Before heading to south Wiltshire, Hart started his career as a trainee with Bristol City.

From there he went on to play at AFC Bournemouth in the Football League – where he met Claridge – Weymouth and Farnborough.

During a career that spans more than ten years, he’s never scored a goal, a duck he hopes to eventually break.

“I’m going to be on penalties, free kicks and everything that comes my way,” he joked.

“I’ve had some stick over the years about people saying I don’t know how you haven’t scored a goal as you have a decent left foot on you!”

“Hopefully, this season, I’ll score a goal or two.”

Boss Claridge said: “This signing is a statement. He’s a wonderful addition.”

  • Sam Roberts scored for the Whites in their 1-1 draw with Eastleigh on Tuesday.