AFC Telford United are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder James Hardy.
Born in Stockport, Hardy signed for Oldham Athletic as a nine-year-old and spent six years with the club before being released in 2011. Following his release, Hardy was offered a trial by boyhood club Manchester City and signed a contract with the club in May 2012.
Hardy joined A.F.C. Fylde in October 2015 and quickly became one of the brightest prospects in non-league football where he was named their 2016/17 Young Player of the Year. He scored eight goals to help Fylde to the National League North title in 2016–17.
A hernia injury ruled Hardy out for four months in the 2018–19 season. On his return he joined F.C. Halifax Town on loan for a month in February 2019 where Hardy played six times for the Shaymen before returning to Fylde.
TELFORD COPYRIGHT MIKE SHERIDAN New AFC Telford United signing James Hardy pictured with manager Gavin Cowan at Love2Stay Shrewsbury on Tuesday, August 11, 2020.
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TELFORD COPYRIGHT MIKE SHERIDAN New AFC Telford United signing James Hardy undergoes a medical with physio Aaron Lambley at Love2Stay Shrewsbury on Tuesday, August 11, 2020.
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The former England C international scored 16 goals in 44 league appearances for Fylde and helped them reach the National League play-off final in May 2019.
Hardy signed for Walsall in June 2019 after his contract expired at Fylde. He scored a late equaliser on his professional debut in a 1–1 draw against Forest Green on 10 August 2019 before making 11 appearance for the Saddlers in League Two last season.
Boss Gavin Cowan “James is a real coup for the club and I am ecstatic to be able to sign someone of his ability. He’s exactly what the group needs and I cant wait to see him get to work. I know our supporters will make him feel welcome”
Everyone at AFC Telford United would like to welcome James to the club
