MIDFIELDER Neil Stevens is back at Throstle Nest after signing for Farsley Celtic from Evo-Stik League Premier Division outfit Buxton.

Stevens was a regular for the Bucks as they just missed out on a play-off place in the top tier last term.

Seven years after he left the Celts, he said: “I can’t wait to get that Farsley shirt on again. I was here from being a young kid so it really is great to be back.”

Stevens can play central midfield or wide right and has even played as a right back but he prefers to be in the middle of park, where he can influence games. He still lives locally, and that was a factor in his decision.

His business in the area is doing well and he is about to tie the knot so he wanted to play his football locally and cut out the travelling time to Buxton.

Aaron Hardy will also be like a new signing for the Celts after the former Bradford Park Avenue and FC Halifax Town defender’s last season was wrecked by a hip injury.

Hardy has extended his stay and he’s looking forward to a tough pre-season.

He said: “It’s a pleasure to be offered a chance to sign for Farsley and I’m looking forward to getting myself fit and back involved on the pitch with the boys.”

The player underwent an operation and missed almost the whole of the last campaign but the club, and particularly manager Neil Parsley, have stood by him. They insisted he take his time to make a full recovery.

Hardy now aims to repay the faith the club showed, give his best for Parsley and reward the efforts of the Celts’ physio Gareth Liversedge after they were with him every step of the way throughout his long rehabilitation process.