Midfielder Joe Ackroyd has returned to Guiseley from Barnsley on a one-year contract.

Ackroyd made 13 appearances, scoring four goals, in his first spell with the club on loan in 2022, and has ended a 10-year association with The Tykes.

Of his return to Nethermoor, 21-year-old Ackroyd said: “I have always felt wanted at Guiseley and part of something and my family have felt at home there.”

He added: “The progression the club are making makes me feel that I want to be a part of it going forward.

“Guiseley have always valued me and it is a good club for me to get back on track with and re-start my football.

“I sustained a knee injury last season, tearing my MCL, and Barnsley have released me but that is part of football.

“It is tough but it has to come to an end at some time and it is important that you don’t let those things define you.”

Ackroyd built up a good relationship with Russ O’Neill in his previous spell with Guiseley, and he remains at the club as sporting director.

A delighted Ackroyd said: “I can always go to Russ for advice and I knew I would be in good hands with him.”

A tough-tackling but creative midfielder, Ackroyd was at Barnsley for a decade having come through their academy.

He made his senior debut for the Tykes in an Emirates FA Cup tie at Oakwell against Barrow in the 2020-21 season.

The youngster has also had a spell out in Czech Republic on loan for MFK Vyškov, making 13 appearances and scoring one goal in the Czech National Football League.