Selby played 23 matches last National Premier League two west season, establishing himself in City’s senior side after spending 2017 in the under-20 division.

Newly-appointed Vikings coach Michael Goodman said Selby would add plenty to the side and showed the club’s intent to give itself every chance of producing a quality 2019 Football Federation Victoria state league three campaign.

“Obviously, we are delighted to have Jake Selby joining Vikings from Ballarat City,” Goodman said.

“This shows a clear statement of intent from the club and Jake adds a great deal of experience playing as a senior in NPL2 last year.

“We were seeking to strengthen our defence this season and Jake will offer pace, balanced feet and the ability to deliver in the final third.”

In further positive news for the club, it has re-signed about 90% of its playing list.

Some players have moved on due to work or study, but the majority have been retained – a huge plus for a club with promotion aspirations.

Vikings assistant coach Dan Hollingworth was pleased to see so many of last season’s crop recommit to the cause.

“We’ve been able to retain the vast majority of our list from last season,” Hollingworth said.

“The strength of our group really comes from their togetherness and their willingness to fight for each other both on and off the field, there is always going to be some sort of turnover at this level, personal circumstances change and that affects the ability for some lads to commit.

“Others like Mick Henry (moving to Caroline Springs George Cross), performed well enough last season to put himself on the radar of bigger clubs and earned the right to compete at a higher level, something which we are very proud of and we wish him the best. We’re confident in the group we have and fully believe we can continue to improve.”