By Crewie
July 8 2002

Grimsby's Michael Boulding has moved to Graham Taylors premiership side, Aston Villa on a free transfer, due to the bosman ruling. The pacy striker had been scouted by many other premiership clubs including Middlesborough. The former Mansfield player quietly signed for Villa over the weekend and the Villa assistant manager, Stuart Gray, confirmed the signing this morning.

Boulding signed on a one-year contract and the option to extend it after next season. Paul Groves, Grimsby manager, spoke about the loss of one of his star players...

"Michael was a smashing lad to work with. He played a major part in our successful stay in the First Division last season. We're sorry to see him go, and it will be a major loss, but we wish him well at Aston Villa."