Curzon Delight As Former Skipper Returns On Loan

Thirty-year-old Walker captained the Nash in the back-to-back promotion campaigns that saw the club rise to the National League North.

He became one of John Flanagan’s first signings when he joined the Nash for his first spell back in 2011, having previously playing at Woodley Sports and Mossley AFC.

He went on to make 206 appearances at the heart of Curzon’s midfield, scoring 41 goals, across four seasons.

After impressing for several seasons in a blue shirt, Walker signed for National League side FC Halifax Town for the 2015/16 season.

After a Buildbase FA Trophy victory against Grimsby Town at Wembley Stadium, Walker moved onto league rivals Salford City in 2016 before joining up with Stockport for the start of this campaign.

Talking about his return, Walker told Curzon Ashton`s official website: “It feels great to be back. From the minute I walked back through the doors, seeing all the old faces, it feels like I’ve never been away. The welcome back I’ve received has been very humbling and something that makes the club so special. I’m looking forward to playing and winning as many games as possible for this great club.”

Manager John Flanagan added: “We’re delighted to have secured the services of Sam on a loan deal from Stockport County. I’d like to thank everybody at County for being very helpful and pushing this loan through at very short notice. We know Sam’s qualities and what he is going to bring to us and I’m sure we’re both going enjoy our time together.”

Stockport boss Jim Gannon said: “I am pleased that a suitable loan agreement has been reached for Sam. He remains an important part of our football plans, but we feel a period on loan to gain match fitness and confidence was important for his game.

“Despite numerous requests from other clubs, myself and Sam agreed that preferably a local club, ideally in the National League North, would best provide him the opportunity to play games, and at the type of level that we want him to perform at.

“I hope that this opportunity allows him the time and space to get back to the playing level we know he is capable of. If he does that then it can only be of great benefit to Sam and Stockport County as we head into the rest of the season.”

Walker hasn’t featured in a league game since the end of November, having started fifteen games for County this season.