nPower League One side Dagenham & Redbridge are pleased to announce the signing of 18-year-old centre back Luke Wilkinson from Portsmouth on a three year contract.

Luke began his career at Bristol City but was picked up by Pompey just over 18 months ago initially on a trial. He made his debut for their reserves against Fulham Then manager, Paul Hart, who was watching from the sidelines, said it was the most impressive performance he had seen from any young player on debut.

He was a regular for Guy Whittingham's side last season and made 10 appearances, including the last five matches of the season when he netted in the 2-2 draw with Wolves.

To gain further experience Luke spent a period on loan to Northampton Town last season as well as Blue Square Eastleigh.

This brings the total new faces at the London Borough of Barking & Dagenham Stadium to seven since the end of last season. Luke joins Alex Osborn (Grays), Danny Green (Billericay Town), Stuart Lewis (Gillingham) Gareth Gwillim (Histon), Gavin Tomlin (Yeovil) and Damian Scannell (Southend).