Cunningham continues squad overhaul

Ashton United have continued their summer squad overhaul with the arrival of several big-name players. 

Firstly, The Robins have made a statement of intent by securing the signature of proven goalscorer Kurt Willoughby. 

The former Oldham Athletic, York City and Chester man has a superb CV, having made close to 200 National League North appearances, as well as featuring 34 times in the National League for both Latics and AFC Fylde. 

Willoughby’s standout season came in a Chester shirt, when he netted 20 goals in the Seals’ run to the 2022/23 National League North play-offs. 

The 28-year-old striker spent the first half of last season with Kidderminster Harriers before a short spell at Buxton, where his opportunities were limited. 

Following his signing, Robins boss Steve Cunningham commented: 

“This is a special signing and one I have been chasing for years.  

“Kurt is a fantastic goal scorer and has proven that at some fantastic clubs, but he has had a spell over the last two seasons where he hasn’t really played as much as he would want. 

“We wanted to create an exciting attacking team this year, with Justin Johnson and now the signing of Kurt I am confident we will have two players enjoying doing what they do best and giving us the best chance to win football matches.” 

At the other end of the pitch, Ashton have also strengthened between the sticks with the arrival of experienced goalkeeper Tommy Taylor. 

The 33-year-old will replace the outgoing Jordan Eastham, and joins following his departure from National League North side Worksop Town. 

Taylor has spent the last two seasons with The Tigers, and helped them earn promotion from the NPL Premier in 2024/25. 

“We knew Jordan was taking a better deal elsewhere and when the opportunity came, we simply could not turn down the chance to sign Tommy, especially with his pedigree,” said Cunningham following his arrival. 

“He has been promoted from this league and has been linked to a lot of other clubs, this is another statement of intent from Ashton United.” 

Elsewhere, attacking full-back John Lufudu has returned to Hurst Cross for his third spell with the club. 

The 31-year-old was a fan favourite during his time with The Robins, and joins having spent the past two seasons with fellow NPL Premier side Guiseley. 

Speaking on Lufudu’s return, Cunningham highlighted the defender’s qualities both on and off the pitch. 

“We are really happy that John is returning to the club where he is highly regarded for his previous performances.  

“John made his intentions known really early that he wanted to return. 

“John possesses great pace and the ability to turn defence into attack within seconds, he has an eye for goal and assists and this all adds to the plan we are trying to put together. 

“Everybody I have spoken to has nothing but positive words to say about him as a player and more importantly as a person and that’s a big factor in our recruitment this year.” 

Also making his Robins return is forward George Chmiel, who is back at Hurst Cross following a year out with injury, while loanees Callum Spooner and Dylan Cogill have both made their moves permanent.