'King' Kurt's Return Has Chester Labelled 'Champions Already'

Chester’s recapture of Kurt Willoughby has prompted one rival National League North manager to crown them champions already.

Radcliffe boss Anthony Johnson feels the Seals have the strongest squad going after the striker’s return.

Willoughby scored 27 times in 52 matches the last time he wore a Chester shirt, convincing Oldham Athletic to make their move.

But he’s been allowed to rejoin on a season-long loan and Johnson - a winner of the division with Salford City in 2018 - think they’ll take some stopping.

On X, he reacted to the transfer and declared: “STATEMENT. Chester FC have just won the 24/25 National League North title.

“I genuinely think Chester have the best squad in the league by far, and with that I think they’ll win it…”

Chester manager Calum McIntyre is just happy to be working with the attacker and says the fans have played a huge part.

“His record during his time with us was formidable and he has a terrific relationship with our fans. We are really pleased to have got this done,” he told the club’s website.

“It is something we have looked to do for some time but ultimately it has only come to fruition over the last few days. We have spoken at length about being patient with our really targeted recruitment and this is the best example of that.

“Finally, I would like to directly congratulate our supporters for their efforts in delivering the funds to make this summer’s recruitment possible.

“The positive signings we have made are directly as a result of the pledges to Boost The Budget, Season Ticket Sales and particularly the pleasing attendances at this season’s pre-season fixtures.”

Where next?

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Six National League Stars Set To Shine In The EFL It’s not only Chesterfield and Bromley who left the Vanarama National League to join the EFL this summer – a number of players followed, too.

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