EASTLEIGH FC announce the loan signing of veteran striker Brett Pitman from Bristol Rovers until the end of the season.

The Silverlake side have been on the lookout for a replacement for forward Ben House, who completed a permanent move to League One Lincoln City in January.

Eastleigh are also currently advertising for a first team manager, after Ben Strevens left the club by mutual consent earlier last week.

Pitman, 34, is under contract with Rovers until the end of the current campaign but has been told that he is free to explore his options. He has netted four goals in 16 League Two matches this season.

The forward goes straight into the Spitfires squad for this weekend's Maidenhead United fixture.

Speaking after completing his loan move to the National League, Pitman said: “I’m happy to get it all signed.

Bournemouth Echo: Brett Pitman signs his Eastleigh papers (Pic: Tom Mulholland)Brett Pitman signs his Eastleigh papers (Pic: Tom Mulholland)

“This is an opportunity for me to come and enjoy my football at this stage of my career and hopefully score some goals.

“I know how much this standard has improved over the years from playing against teams in the FA Cup. I hope that I can bring my experience for the end of the season.”

Pitman is a Cherries legend, scoring 101 goals in just under 300 competitive appearances for the side across three stints. He helped Cherries to win promotion from League Two and League One, as well as the Championship title.

Pitman also scored 11 goals in League One last season, while playing for Swindon Town.

Eastleigh are set to become his seventh senior side, after Cherries, Bristol City, Ipswich Town, Portsmouth, Swindon Town and Bristol Rovers.