A remarkable turn of events has seen Gainsborough Trinity re-sign goalkeeper Dylan Wharton.
The former Sheffield United youngster was released by the Blades at the end of last season, leaving him free to join the Holy Blues just two days before the start of the Northern Premier League campaign.
The imposing 6′ 5″ goalkeeper made 24 appearances for Trinity last term, battling through injuries and bouts of illness to record six clean sheets.
He said: “I’m made up to be back at Gainsborough. After the ups and downs of last season, and how everybody stuck by me, to have the opportunity to come back and be a part of things for the 2024/25 season really wasn’t a difficult decision to make.
“The way we finished the season last year, and the way Russ has kept the squad together & recruited some really good players, there’s no reason why we can’t be challenging for promotion this season.”
While Wharton has not played a game of football since leaving Trinity at the end of his loan spell last term, manager Russ Wilcox is assured that he will get up to speed quickly.
He said: “I am delighted that Dylan Wharton is back with us at Gainsborough Trinity working alongside fellow goalkeeper Josh Render. He knows the hard work starts now.
“He hasn’t played any games since last season, but I’m sure under the guidance of ex-Premiership goalkeeper, Kevin Pressman he will improve and develop. He knows most of the group and staff really well, so he should settle in very quickly.”
The casualty of the surprising return is ex-Guiseley goalkeeper Ollie Battersby, who has now left the Holy Blues without featuring in a competitive game for the side.
Wharton’s return follows the confirmation that academy product Kyle Simpson had been added to the first team squad, and former Hull City scholar Glen Sani had signed for the club.
Gainsborough begin their season with a trip to Ilkeston Town on Saturday, August 10.
Feature Image Credit: Richard Bierton and Worksop Town FC