CHIPPENHAM have resigned attacking midfielder JP Mills in a bid to boost their depleted squad for the nailbiting climax to the Southern League season.

Mills enjoyed a loan spell with the Bluebirds under former manager Tommy Saunders before moving to Australia to play for Perth side Floreat Athena.

The former Oxford United and Southampton trainee arrived back in the country last week and chose to join Chippenham over North Wiltshire rivals Swindon Supermarine.

Mills said he was happy to be back at Hardenhuish Park and is keen to make an impression to earn himself a permanent contract.

He said: "It was a bit of a surprise to be back at Chippenham. I had only been in the country for ten days when I got the call from Darren wanting me to play against Bromsgrove.

"Darren asked if I wanted to get a few games under my belt and I saw from the table that Chippenham were top of the league. I know they have had some injury problems so I am happy to play if it will help."

Perrin had to get international clearance to include Mills in the squad for Tuesday's Errea Cup clash with Bromsgrove Rovers.

The 22-year-old came on as a late second half substitute but barely touched the ball as Chippenham crashed out to their Southern Western opponents.

Said Perrin: "JP did not really have a chance to impress in the time he had. I had never even seen him play before tonight but I've heard good things about him from some of my players.

"With the injuries we have JP will get his chance to show what he can do in the next few weeks."

Mills will have to acclimatise quickly if he wants to earn a starting place in the side for tomorrow's clash with Hitchin Town.

"I was playing at a similar standard to the Southern League out in Australia but the game is not as fast or as physical there," he said. "I was always getting booked and I they saw me as a bit of a bad boy.

"Tonight was the first time I have worn studs in over a year. I nearly had to defrost them by the fireplace before kick-off.

"I like English football. It's fast and furious and I would definitely consider staying here at Chippenham. My ambition is to force my way into the first team and I hope the season will end in success with promotion into the Conference South."