Darlington have today signed utility player Joe Leesley for the second time.

Joe, 30, played for us on loan from Boston in season 2022-23, making seven appearances and scoring once, in the 3-1 home win over Alfreton, before transferring to Kidderminster Harriers and helping them to promotion.

Joe left Kidderminster in February this year, and signed for Scunthorpe, with whom he ended the season before being released.

Earlier in his career, Joe also played for Winterton Rangers, Matlock, Harrogate, Stockport and Stevenage. He helped Harrogate win promotion from the National League North in 2018 and then to the Football League in 2020. He scored 34 goals for Harrogate in 148 appearances,  including 22 in season 2017-18, but in recent seasons he has been playing as a midfielder or a defender.

Darlington manager Steve Watson said; “We’re looking to add as much quality to the squad as we can, and Joe’s quality isn’t in doubt because he can play in several positions.

“We want to build a strong dressing room, and we want as many leaders and characters as we can. He ticks all the boxes.

“Joe has been at this club before, and he’s displayed strong enthusiasm to come back. The fans were a big part of his stay last time, and he now feels that he wants to finish the journey.”

You can watch an interview with Joe here:

Joe has signed a one year contract with us. Everyone at Darlington would like to welcome him back to the club and wish him every success.

The signing is subject to FA and National League approval.