Title-winner Byrom makes move into non-league

Cobblers' former title-winning midfielder Joel Byrom has signed for non-league side Farsley Celtic from Stevenage.

The 33-year-old has won promotion three times since 2010, most recently with the Cobblers when Chris Wilder's side marched their way to the League Two title in 2016.

Despite turning 34 next week, Bryom has signed up for another season with the National League North club and will make his first appearance against Tadcaster on Tuesday evening.

“I just had a good conversation with the gaffer last week, he told me what his plans were for the season and it coincided with me moving back up North, so it all made sense to me and I’m happy that I’m here," Byrom told the club's website.

“I think you have to into every season hoping for the best and you’ve got to go in with a positive mindset, and hopefully I can bring that experience in the middle of the park, help us push on and have a good season.”

Manager Adam Lakeland added: “Joel’s a really good acquisition for us, he’s a top player. I’ve known him for quite a number of years now, he actually came and did his work experience with me when I worked in the community trust at Blackburn and you could just see then that he absolutely oozed quality.

“He has an unbelievable left foot, he’s technically very strong, he’s got every range of pass in his locker and he can strike a ball, he’s scored some fantastic goals.

“As soon as he became available I had to act on it, and I’m absolutely thrilled that he’s decided to join us."