Silsden AFC are delighted to announce the signing of 17-year-old goalkeeper Alfie Darke from Bradford City.

Darke, who played the final three games of last season on loan at Silsden obviously impressed as he now returns to The Cobbydalers.

A Bradford City scholar for the last few years, the young goalkeeper showed plenty of potential as well as a maturity in his game not often found at this level, proving himself to be a valuable asset for Danny Forrest’s outfit.

The manager had his say once the deal had been finalized:

“I’m delighted to get Alfie on board, since joining on a youth loan from Bradford City he’s been a breath of fresh air. At such a young age, I’m sure he will develop, and while doing so he’ll certainly play a big part for the club this season. I believe securing Alfie shows just how attractive the club is now.”

Alfie himself also spoke about his successful first training sessions as a full Silsden player:

“It’s been tough, there’s been a lot of warm weather but you’ve got to get the hard graft in and it’s important to hit the ground running for the new season.”

Find out more about our new signings in the coming days and weeks, as we build up to the new season, by following our Twitter, Facebook and Instagram accounts.