Macauley Southam-Hales Signs for the Gas: A Champion’s Mentality Arrives at the Mem

Bristol Rovers have secured the signing of full-back Macauley Southam-Hales from League One side Stockport County — and with him arrives not just experience and energy down the flanks, but a winning mentality.

The 29-year-old right-back has penned a two-year deal with the Gas, becoming our third signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Jack Sparkes and Alfie Kilgour. There's a clear theme emerging — proven Football League pedigree, players with character, and a hunger to be part of something bigger.

Southam-Hales arrives on the back of a title-winning campaign with Stockport, where he was a standout figure in their charge to the League Two crown. A modern full-back known for his engine, attacking intent, and tenacity, he feels like a natural fit for Darrell Clarke’s project.

Speaking after signing, Southam-Hales said:

“I’m delighted to get the deal done. I just can’t wait to get going… I met the gaffer and took to him immediately. It was really eye-opening to see the project going on behind the scenes.”

It’s no surprise that the defender was full of praise for the Rovers set-up, with strong links to Stockport through current staff helping smooth the transition. Those connections clearly carried weight — and Clarke’s growing influence at the club is once again showing in recruitment.

Clarke himself had this to say:

“The first thing to say about him is what a genuinely brilliant character he is, who will bring determination, resiliency and an exceptionally high standard to our squad.”

That emphasis on character is becoming a recurring theme. Rovers aren’t just assembling a squad — they’re building a culture. Southam-Hales’ arrival adds yet another leader, another competitor, and another player with real pedigree at this level.

Director of Football Ricky Martin summed it up best:

“Macauley is a top professional and comes with some of the best character references I have ever received from other players and coaches.”

At 29, Southam-Hales brings experience, but also plenty of miles still in the tank. He’s a player who’s been part of a successful promotion campaign, knows what it takes to battle through the trenches of a League Two season — and win.

This one feels like a smart, no-nonsense bit of business. With Sparkes on the left, Macauley on the right, and Alfie Kilgour returning to the heart of defence — Clarke’s backline rebuild is well underway. There’s a lot of work still to do, but the spine of a proper League Two team is taking shape.

Welcome to BS7, Macauley — we’re buzzing to see you in blue and white.