Attacking midfielder Matty played Northern League football for Newcastle Benfield, Whitley Bay and Consett - for whom he played in the 2020 FA Vase final - before switching to the USA to play for several clubs, including Nova South Eastern University in Fort Lauderdale, helping them reach the national semi finals.

He returned to England in July 2022 and played for Blyth Spartans in NLN, and after another spell in the USA, joined Marske United in the Northern Premier League at the start of this season. He left Marske when the club resigned from the NPL in season 23/24.

Matty said: "I'm delighted to join the club and really looking forward to playing. I know quite a few of the lads in the dressing room, and I know Terry Mitchell well from before. Hopefully I can help us get out of the relegation zone."

Darlington assistant manager Terry Mitchell said: “We are delighted to have signed Matty for the club. I know Matty well, he is a very positive attacking player. He played for me at Consett, when he played a big part in us getting to the FA Vase final at Wembley three years ago, and then again at Blyth Spartans. I’m looking forward to working with him again.”

Home kit sponsor: @jessothegoalkeeper

Away kit sponsor: Martin Deans