Chris Barker, who has played for Cardiff City and Queens Park Rangers, joins Hereford FC as player-coach

Barker, who arrives following a three-season spell at Aldershot Town, has made more than 500 Football League appearances.

The 36-year-old has played for the likes of Cardiff City, Queens Park Rangers Plymouth Argyle and Southend United. 

Barker moved to Aldershot in 2013/14 and went went on to make more than 70 appearances in the Football Conference and National League.

He was part of the side that dramatically lost 2-1 to Hereford on the final day of the 2013/14 season.

The victory kept United in the Conference Premier before unpaid debts meant they were demoted two months later.

In January 2015, Sheffield-born Barker was named caretaker boss of Aldershot, taking over from Andy Scott on a temporary basis.

Barker then remained as assistant manager to Shots boss Barry Smith until the end of the 2015/16 season.

Hereford manager Pete Beadle says he is delighted to secure Barker's services.

“This is a fantastic signing for us," said Beadle.

“Chris has a wealth of experience that could prove invaluable to our young squad.

"Not only is he a very talented player who can play in a number of positions across the back four, but he will also be a fantastic addition to our coaching set up.”