SALFORD City have completed the signing of Billy Priestley from Vanarama National League North side Bradford Park Avenue for an undisclosed fee.
The Ammies, who were keen to bolster to their defensive ranks after an injury to Andy Dawson, originally saw their offer rejected. However an improved offer resulted in the Avenue agreeing to let Priestley talk to the class of ’92 owned club.
Bradford Park Avenue, who replaced manager Martin Drury with Darren Edmondson earlier this week, said once Preistley said the move was “in his best interests” the club “did not wish to stand in his way”.
The 26-year-old has made 28 appearances for Avenue this season, scoring one goal since a period on loan at Ashton United early in the campaign.
The centre-back, who has also featured at left-back whilst at The Horsfall Stadium, made 61 appearances in just under two years for the Avenue, scoring three goals.
Priestley will be reunited with Bernard Morley and Anthony Johnson after spending the 2013-14 season under the pair at Ramsbottom United.
The official Salford City website has described him as “an aerially dominant and physically imposing defender”.
On the move, Priestley told the official Bradford Park Avenue website: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at the club, I’ve loved absolutely everything about it.
“They’re a decent bunch of lads there and I’ve really enjoyed playing with them.
“It is just the right time for a change for me at the moment.
“It was a lot of travelling getting to games, not just at home but to go to away games too, Salford is a lot closer to home for me, so it is a good move.”
Priestley is expected to go straight into Salford’s squad for their game at Moor Lane against Whitby Town on Saturday.
By Callum Matthews
@matthews1818
Recent Comments