Margetts returns to Matlock as Gladiators begin summer recruitment drive

Margetts is no stranger to supporters of the NPL East Division side, his 33 goals in 28 appearances for the club at Step 3 level earning him a move to King's Lynn Town in January 2024.

The experienced striker previously represented Stamford - where he worked under newly-appointed Gladiators boss Graham Drury - and scored an impressive 57 goals in 64 appearances.

Similarly fruitful spells in front of goal came for his previous two clubs, Belper Town and Frickley Athletic, where he averaged more than a goal per game across the two spells.

Last season, Margetts also topped the scoring charts for Northern Premier League side Gainsborough Trinity with 11.

Matlock say that Margetts will bring "proven pedigree and leadership on the pitch", as the club begins what is expected to be another busy summer of recruitment.

The club have also announced a mass exodus of players, with just three of the squad that ended the season - Declan Lambton, Declan Eratt-Thompson and Tommy Elliott - being retained for the 2026/27 campaign.

Matlock had hoped to see midfielder Liam Ravenhill stay with the club, but he is set to move further up the football pyramid after expressing a desire to play at a higher level.

Their season ended in NPL East Division play-off disappointment, losing 2-1 at home to Bradford (Park Avenue) in the semi-finals.