Former Sunderland, Hartlepool United and Peterborough United defender Jack Baldwin has joined Hornchurch

Former Sunderland defender Jack Baldwin has joined Hornchurch after leaving Colchester United.

The 32-year-old centre-back, who also had spells with Hartlepool United, Peterborough United, Bristol Rovers, Ross County and Northampton Town, has made the move to the Urchins ahead of the new season. Hornchurch say they fought off interest from EFL and National League clubs to secure Baldwin’s signature, with the defender bringing significant experience to the club after making more than 280 appearances in the EFL.

Baldwin joined Sunderland from Peterborough United in the summer of 2018, signing a two-year deal for an undisclosed fee following the Black Cats’ relegation to League One. He made 42 appearances for the club in total and scored three goals, including his first Sunderland goal in a 2-1 win over Bradford City in October 2018. The defender later left Sunderland in the summer of 2020, bringing an end to his two-year spell on Wearside.

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Hornchurch manager Daryl McMahon said: “Jack is a great addition to the football club. You’ve only got to look at his CV - the levels he’s played at, the teams he’s played for. He’s had a fantastic career, and he’s hungry to get back to down from where he’s from with us and play some football, and help us improve us as a team.

“We see him as someone who can help us improve on and off the pitch. He’s a leader, he’s a good talker, a good organiser as well as being a good footballer and a competitive person. We’re delighted to announce him as a new player, and we wish him well going into the season.”

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