AFC Fylde have signed defender Andy Taylor on a short term deal, ahead of this evening’s game with Chesterfield.

Taylor, 33, joins up with Dave Challinor’s side after departing League Two side Oldham in the summer, and having trained with with AFC Fylde the past few weeks.

After leaving Sheffield United in 2012 where he played 26 times in the Championship, Taylor spent four successful years in League One with Walsall, making a total of 159 appearances for the Saddlers.

With over 300 league appearances, Taylor will be well remembered on the Fylde coast as Blackpool FC’s captain in their 2016/17 season, where they gained promotion to League One via the playoffs.

Taylor had spent last season with Oldham Athletic – and after leaving the club in the summer, has impressed at AFC Fylde on trial.

Itching To Go

“I’ve been in with the group for a couple of weeks and have played a reserve game, so I’ve been itching to get the deal done and get back to playing football,” said Taylor.

“I spent a bit of time with Doncaster in pre-season, but that didn’t materialise, so since then it’s been about keeping myself fit, being in the gym and out running.”

Taylor started his career at Blackburn Rovers, and despite not forcing his way into the reckoning there, established himself in the Football League as a dynamic full-back.

“I’ve always described myself as an attacking left-back – I enjoy getting forward, and look to make things happen in the opposition box.”

“First and foremost though I’m a defender of course, so I pride myself on looking after that left hand side.”

“I’m here to work hard and enjoy my football, so whatever I can bring to the group to help achieve is great,” continued Taylor.

“Whether that’s ability wise, or off the pitch stuff, having been a captain and a leader, it’s what I’ll do.”

Taylor will wear number 16, and is available for tonight’s clash with Chesterfield.

Tickets for the game are on sale now, both in the club shop, and in the online ticket store here.