Short-term contract for Walker

COUNTY moved to strengthen the ranks at Edgeley Park with the addition of former Bolton Wanderers forward Tom Walker last week.

Walker joined on what the club described as a “short-term deal” after being released by The Trotters in June, and made his Hatters debut in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Gainsborough.

The midfielder came on as a late substitute, and almost enjoyed a dream debut - striking the foot of the post with his first touch in a County shirt.

And Walker, who spent last season on loan at League One side Bury, later expressed his gratitude to his new club for the chance to move back up the footballing pyramid.

“It’s been tough for me and my family - I’ve been at trial at numerous clubs over the summer, but for one reason or another nothing’s materialised, and I’m grateful that Jim has given me a chance to play here and work my way back up again,” Walker said.

The Lancashire-born youngster already has links to Edgeley Park, after Walker came through the ranks at the Macron Stadium alongside County midfielder Jimmy Ball - with Ball quick to take the credit for Walker’s move to The Hatters!

“I’m good friends with Jimmy, we know each other from playing at Bolton when I was 18 - I always keep in touch with him, and it’s nice to link up again. I’ve come here to play football, I’ve been a bit-part player at Bury and Bolton so hopefully with performances like the last twenty minutes against Gainsborough, the manager will keep me in mind for a starting spot.”