Quakers have today signed vastly-experienced defender Nicky Hunt following his release from Crewe Alexandra.

Nicky, 36, made his debut for Bolton Wanderers in the Premiership in 2001, and he established himself as a regular in their side under manager Sam Allardyce making 161 appearances, including the 2004 Carling Cup final defeat against Middlesbrough. He played a key role in Bolton's success in the Premiership in that era, when they finished in the top eight of the Premiership in four successive seasons.

After loan spells at Birmingham and Derby, he moved to Bristol City in 2010, and then on to Preston, Rotherham, Accrington Stanley (where he played with Darlington players Will Hatfield and Michael Liddle), Mansfield, Leyton Orient, Notts County and Crewe, with whom he won promotion from League Two last season.

He was released by the Gresty Road outfit earlier in the summer, and after talking to manager Alun Armstrong, has now decided to go part time. In total, he made 458 appearances in his career, scoring four times, including a memorable goal for Bolton against Liverpool in the Premiership. He has also gained ten caps for England Under 21s.

Darlington manager Alun Armstrong said; "Nicky's vast experience in the game is going to be invaluable for us. He has played at a much higher level since 2001, and only last season was a regular in the Crewe Alexandra team that won promotion from League Two. He can play at full back or in the centre of defence.

"He is a very good organiser on the pitch, and will bring out the best in the players around him."

Nicky said; "Alun was one of the first managers I spoke to after I was released at the end of the season, and he made feel wanted. I'm really looking forward to getting back into football having not played since March, and it will be great to catch up with Will and Michael, and the rest of the lads. Hopefully I can help get Darlington promoted."

We would like to welcome Nicky to the club, and wish him every success during his stay with us.

The signing is subject to FA and League clearance.