Battersby makes Guiseley stay permanent

The 22-year-old initially joined the Lions in August on a short-term deal in the absence of Brad Wade.

Since then, he has featured five times and has kept two clean sheets, with his impressive performances earning him a permanent contract at the club.

A former Grimsby Town youth player, Battersby signed a professional contract with the club in 2018, but after subsequent loan spells at the likes of Lincoln United, Mickleover, Gateshead, Belper Town and Ilkeston Town, he found it difficult to establish a spot in the Mariners squad.

On his new contract with Guiseley, he said: “In my time at Grimsby I was sent out on loan to Lincoln United, Mickleover Sports, Gateshead, Belper Town, Hereford and Ilkeston Town. It is difficult for ‘keepers as you are vying for one place in the team while outfielders can get an opportunity in a number of positions.

“An outfield player has always got a chance of playing whereas as a ‘keeper you are either in or out of the team. Once you have got past the Under-21 games your opportunities are very limited. You keep being sent out on loan and it is so very stop start.

He added: “Now is the time for me to find a place to settle down and be able to play 40 or more games and push on. I have got to 22 and have never done a full season anywhere. I now want to get that under my belt and I think that for me Guiseley is the place to do it.

“It is a good ground, a good set up and I feel the right place for me to kick start my career. My aim is still to be a full time pro and I have to prove that I am worthy of that by keeping lots of clean sheets and helping Guiseley to get into the play-offs. I need to succeed as an individual and by doing that I will help the team to succeed.”

Photo credit: Grimsby Town