The New Saints boss Scott Ruscoe has moved quickly to build his squad again after releasing nine players with his second signing of the week.

Teenage midfielder Josh Hmami has signed a deal with TNS for the coming year, arriving at Park Hall via Bolton Wanderers’s Academy, Barnsley FC’s Under-16 squad and a two-year scholarship with League Two champions Accrington Stanley, where he captained the club's under-18s.

Training regularly with the first team and featuring in several behind-closed-doors friendlies, Hmami’s big break came in 2017 when he made senior debut on December 30 against Grimsby Town.

Hmami will wear the number 18 shirt for the 2018/2019 season, one associated with legendary striker, Mike Wilde, during his Park Hall days and since worn by Mihai Leca and Tom Holland last season.

He said: “I am really happy to sign for TNS and looking forward to working with both Scott and Steve (Ruscoe and Evans). I am hoping to be a good addition to what is already an outstanding team and I cannot wait for the season to start.”

Ruscoe added: “Josh has earned himself a contract with us after spending the last part of 2017/2018 training with the squad.

"He is only 18 and is a very good player, especially in possession of the ball. He has a great attitude and will be someone we will look to improve and develop for the future."