Basingstoke labelled Gerrard as a target at the beginning of August after hearing through a network of trusted football people of his obvious talents.

Having watched him a number of times over recent months he has displayed real quality both in his defensive and offensive work.

Strong, combative and a good passer of the ball he certainly fits the bill in what Basingstoke have been looking.

Formerly with Bracknell Town and Aldershot Town, he started the season at Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division side Reading City.

Jason Bristow told http://btfc.co.uk: “We’re really pleased to have signed Rob. We’ve asked a job of a number of our players in recent months to fill in at left-back, all of which have done well, but we are excited to have a natural left-back – particularly one of Rob’s quality. He’s amongst a really good group here so we are sure he will settle in quickly and continue to develop.”

Gerrard said: “I’m really excited by the opportunity and it’s something I have been working towards. I’ve already trained with the boys this week and the quality of the team is really impressive as was the intensity in which they train. I am looking forward to getting started and helping Basingstoke win games.”

Gerrard will be in the squad for tomorrow’s Buildbase FA Trophy tie against Wimborne Town.