FORMER Weymouth and AFC Bournemouth defender Sam Sherring has joined MK Dons after exiting Northampton Town.

The Dorchester-born centre-half rejected a new contract after Northampton tabled an offer following negotiations between the two parties.

Sherring played 77 times for the Cobblers, scoring twice, and won promotion from League Two in the 2022/23 season.

He is the second Dorset-born player to leave Northampton this summer after Burton Bradstock’s Dom Gape was released in May.

READ MORE: Mark Molesley hails 'fantastic' Sam Sherring

In his departing interview, Sherring stated his desire for a “new challenge”.

He told Northampton’s official website: "I've loved every second of the last two seasons, and I am really proud that we've managed to have all the success I hoped for.

"After some reflection, I just feel that the time is right to move and that it is time for a new challenge."

"We thank Sam for his two years at the club, he is another player who we think has improved in his time with us, and we part on good terms," manager Jon Brady said.

Northampton added: “The club made Sherring a good contract offer but Sam has said his decision to move on is not a financial one, it is a personal decision and everyone at the club wishes Sam every success with his future career.”

Sherring’s move to Milton Keynes represents a drop to League Two level, with the Dons beaten 5-1 by Crawley in the play-off semi-finals this summer.

After sealing his move, Sherring told MK Dons’ media team: "The plan and the vision for the club, as well as the facilities and everything here, made it a no-brainer decision for me. I'm really happy to be here!"

He added: “The style of play is something that's massive for me.

“I think it's really attractive and something that'll suit me, hopefully, we can be successful with it."

Sherring will be managed by former Newcastle centre-back Mike Williamson, who spoke highly of the former Torquay defender.

"Sam fits the profile of the kind of player we want to bring into the club down to the ground,” Williamson said.

“He's young and hungry to succeed but already has meaningful EFL experience and has won promotion from this division before.

“We're really pleased to have him and look forward to seeing what he adds to our defence."

Sherring played 49 times for Weymouth across 2018 to 2020 over two loan spells under boss Mark Molesley.