Joe Thornton during his first spell with Athersley Rec
Joe Thornton has returned to Athersley Rec to help them avoid relegation from the Toolstation NCEL Premier Division.
Thornton was a prolific figure for his local side during Athersley’s first two seasons as an NCEL club so will certainly add firepower to the 17th placed side. In his first spell, Athersley surprised many by winning the Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup.
The striker, who has also played for Pontefract Collieries, Ossett Albion and Staveley Miners Welfare, has spent the last year-and-half with Shaw Lane Aquaforce – apart from a brief stint at Tadcaster.
Thornton helped Aquaforce win the Premier Division title and reach the FA Vase quarter-finals last season.
Athersley have also re-signed Eddie Hague and joint manager Jason Dodsworth said: “I’m really happy to have got these two back.
“Joe is a proven goal scorer and can also play a variety of positions it’s a quality addition for us.
“It’s also good to have Eddie back as he’s a big powerful player and can play centre half or centre midfield.
“It’s a position were we’ve struggled this season as we’ve had a few injuries so it will boost the squad.
“We’re coming into a big period over Xmas and I am hoping we can get a good run of results going and push up the table.”