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Warrington Rylands forward heads west on loan

Warrington Rylands forward heads west on loan

Stalybridge Celtic have announced the signing of Warrington Rylands forward Tunde Owolabi on an initial one-month loan.

The move sees Owolabi reunite with former boss Jon Macken, with the pair having previously secured promotion to the Northern Premier League's top division with Radcliffe during the 2018/19 season.

 

During that season, Owolabi scored 26 goals and added 13 assists.

 

He went on to enjoy a prolific season with FC United of Manchester the following campaign, scoring 35 goals in all competitions.

 

Such form earned the Belgium-born forward a full-time move to Scottish side Hamilton Academical for an undisclosed fee in the summer of 2020.

 

He went on to spend time in Ireland before returning to the Northern Premier League ranks in December 2023, signing for Macclesfield.

 

After the Silkmen failed to earn promotion that season after losing in the play-off final to Marine, the 30-year-old joined National League North side Southport but soon returned to Radcliffe, where he spent the remainder of last season.

 

Owolabi joined Rylands over the summer but has struggled for regular opportunities, resulting in a temporary move away.

 

“I'm delighted to have signed for Stalybridge Celtic and to be reunited with Jon Macken," he said.

 

“He played a big role at the start of my football journey, and winning promotion with him is a memory that will stay with me forever.

 

"It's been a frustrating start to the season, but I'm focused on playing games and getting back to my best."

He made his Stalybridge debut on Saturday, scoring in their 2-1 defeat at Kidsgrove Athletic.

 

Owolabi's initial loan spell will run until November 1.

 

Manager Jon Macken said of his new forward: “He’s a fantastic player and one who I know very well. Once I knew he was available, I jumped at the chance and can’t wait to work with Tunde once again.

 

“He’ll provide us with another option in attack and complement our existing players.

 

"For the club to have signed Tunde, it’s a massive coup.”