Flitcroft makes striker permanent fixture

Chorley manager Garry Flitcroft completed the permanent signing of striker Darren Stephenson from Conference Premier Southport on Tuesday for a nominal fee.

Stephenson was a big hit during an eight game loan spell at Victory Park earlier in the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division when he netted six times and enjoyed five victories.

Jamaican born, the frontman kicked off his career with Bradford City where he made a single appearance for the Valley Parade club just days after his 18th birthday. Several successful loan spells followed with Hinckley United, Woodley Sports and Stocksbridge Park Steels.

Towards the end of 2011-12 season he switched to Southport on loan before making the move to Haig Avenue permanent in the summer. The striker missed that start of 2012-13 preseason through injury and initially joined the Magpies on loan to build up his fitness levels.

A Chorley spokesman said: "We are delighted to bring Darren back to the club.
"He was phenomenal earlier in the season for us; on his day he was unplayable. He has has pace, strength and stamina but most important of all, he has superb ability and knows where the goal is."