Goalkeeper Aaron Chapman has joined Steve Evans’ Stevenage after rejecting the chance to stay at Gillingham.

Chapman enjoyed a brief spell as first choice keeper at the Gills under Neil Harris, who wanted the 31-year-old to sign a new deal this summer, but instead he opted to look at options elsewhere.

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It was understood Chapman wanted a move closer to his South Yorkshire home, which he has got, albeit not by a massive distance.

Evans left the Gills in January and ended the season with Stevenage. His departure from Priestfield was followed by a scathing criticism from club chairman Paul Scally, saying a “dark cloud had been lifted.”

But for Chapman, it’s a different story, signing once more for an Evans side.

Commenting on the Stevenage website, he said: “I have signed for the manager three times now [also previously together at Peterborough] because he creates atmospheres and squads that I want to be a part of.

“I will give it my all, the supporters will see that I am passionate and that I have come here to win games.”

Chapman signed for the Gills last summer but was no.2 under Evans, only breaking into the team regularly under Harris after loan keeper Jamie Cumming had left for MK Dons.

Gillingham will be in the same division as Stevenage next season and already have former Priestfield players Luke Norris and Elliott List on their books.