Ilkeston Town Football Club are pleased to confirm the signing of goalkeeper Dylan Wharton.
The 22-year-old joins the Robins from Gainsborough Trinity, where he made 44 appearances last season – including a standout performance in an Emirates FA Cup penalty shootout against Hednesford which saw the young shot-stopper save three spot kicks as the Holy Blues reached the Second Round Proper of the competition.
On his move to the Microlise New Manor Ground, Wharton said: “It’s perfect for me, I’ve always had a little place in my heart for Ilkeston, growing up literally two minutes away. I’ve always said I would love to come and play for this club and now I have found my opportunity.”
“I’ve known Deaks for a few years now, obviously when I was back at Heanor and he was at Long Eaton, we played against his side a couple of times. I’ve always had a good connection with him and thought I would love to play under him.
“Being at my home club and having Deaks as a manager is perfect for me.”
Looking ahead to the coming season, Wharton added: “I had a great connection with the fans at Gainsborough and I want to do the exact same here.”
Adding another goalkeeper to his squad ahead of pre-season, Deakin said: “Dylan is a very imposing goalkeeper, kicks it a mile, and had a fantastic season for Gainsborough last year. He has been at Chesterfield and Sheffield United as a pro as well. We’re very lucky to have him.
“He’s somebody that adds quality to our squad and competition obviously for Matt Yates. I think it is important at the start of the season that we have that in every position.
“I’ve got two fantastic goalkeepers now and it will be a duel to see who gets the number one shirt come the start of the season but I am delighted that Dylan has chosen us to come and play for.”