Popular forward, Zak Goodson, has returned to the Microlise New Manor Ground.

Zak joined us in the summer of 2020 at 20-years-old, going on to make 48 appearances for the Robins, finding the back of the net on 34 occasions.

Goodson departed the Robins in August 2022, joining Altrincham FC of the National League for an undisclosed fee. Since then, Zak has had loan spells at Boston United and Spennymoor Town before joining Chester FC at the start of the 2023/24 season where he made 3 appearances for the Seals this season, scoring on his debut.

After signing, Zak spoke to our media team, saying “It’s good to be back at the New Manor Ground, I’m home.”

Manager Ian Deakin gave his thoughts on Zak’s return, saying “Zak will need no introduction to the Ilkeston fans, he is a quality player, a winger, somebody who is very much a goal scorer and has been prolific at every club he’s been to.

“When there was an opportunity to bring him back to Ilkeston Town, it was something we had to jump at.

“He’ll again add even more quality to the squad, we already have a strong existing squad, but we want competition for places, we want that hunger and desire to play and when you’re out there, wanting to play.

“Zak is very dynamic, can play on the right or the left, a potent finisher and if he gets the chances, will probably put them away.

Welcome back, Zak.