Alex Hartridge: A New Chapter as a Chairboy

Wycombe Wanderers have today announced the signing of Alex Hartridge, a promising defender from Exeter City, as their first new recruit of the summer. The 25-year-old left-sided defender has agreed to join the Chairboys on July 1st, upon the expiration of his contract with the Grecians.

Hartridge, a fans’ favourite at Exeter City, has made over 150 appearances for the club in a seven-year spell. His impressive performances, particularly in Exeter’s back-line against Wycombe in the past two years, have not gone unnoticed.

The move to Adams Park marks a significant step in Hartridge’s career, as he becomes Matt Bloomfield’s first signing ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. The transfer remains subject to EFL and FA approval, but anticipation is already building among the Wycombe faithful.

Having spent 17 years with Exeter City, Hartridge’s departure is both a sad and proud moment for the club. Gary Caldwell, Exeter City’s manager, expressed his sentiments, stating, “It’s always a sad moment, but a proud moment at the same time when academy players leave. Hopefully, they go into the wider football world and have fantastic careers.” Caldwell also highlighted the success stories of Exeter’s academy, including Ollie Watkins in the Premier League and other players who have gone on to have remarkable careers.

Hartridge’s most prolific campaign came in the 2022/23 season, where he made 43 appearances in Exeter’s first campaign back in the third tier. Opting not to extend his stay, the Devon native played 35 times last season as Exeter finished 13th in League One.

Wycombe boss Matt Bloomfield said of Alex, “He’s got all the attributes of a first-class defender at this level and he was extremely highly thought of at Exeter for his contributions on and off the pitch.”

You can see Alex’s first interview with Wycombe on YouTube

Alex’s leaving message to Exeter City