MANSFIELD TOWN boss David Holdsworth has fought off massive interest to sign talented midfielder Andy Burgess on an 18 month contract from Luton Town.
The 28-year-old has played 10 times for the Hatters since his summer move.
- Also on Thursday, wingman Kevin Dobson - signed on a three-month contract in October - went out on loan to Kettering.
The influential Burgess, who can play in central midfielder or on either wing, made his league debut for Rushden and Diamonds, after progressing through their ranks, in the 1999/2000 season.
He went on to feature in their Conference winning season in 2000/01, starting in 37 games that term.
He then helped the Diamonds to the play-off final in the 2001/02, but missed the trip to the Millennium Stadium due to suspension.
After featuring in the team that won Division Three in 2003, he went on to start in 42 games in Division Two the following season.
Burgess made over 200 appearances for the Diamonds before leaving to join Oxford United in 2006. After 50 appearances for the U's he returned to Nene Park.
A hugely successful season in 2007/08 was marked by a number of awards including the Fans "player of the season" award, plus a number of appearances for the England "C" team.
He was then named club captain the following year and appeared 40 times for the Diamonds.
Burgess was then snapped up by promotion hopefuls Luton Town in the summer, the club he has supported all his life long.
Manager David Holdsworth told www.mansfieldtown.net this afternoon: "I hope this signifies my intention to bring in quality players to this football club.
"I have been aware of Andy's qualities for some time and I know he will be an excellent addition to our squad."
