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Exeter City have signed midfielder Ed Francis for an undisclosed fee from National League side Gateshead.

Francis, 24, made 41 appearances across all competitions for the Tynesiders last campaign as they finished inside the play-off places.

He has penned a two-year deal at St James Park with the option for a third and is the club's fifth signing of the summer.

“Ed is a left-footed player who is technically very gifted and we see him as someone who has a big future as our number six,” manager Gary Caldwell said.

“He actually started out as a centre-back and transitioned when he signed for Harrogate, and is someone who is at a perfect stage of his career to continue his development and improve as a player.

“Most importantly, he was desperate to sign for us.”

The Grecians get their League One campaign under way on 10 August when they face Rotherham United at home.