Guiseley AFC have added exciting full-back John Lufudu to their ranks for the upcoming season, writes Rachel O’Connor.

Lufudu is the latest player to return to the club having played for The Lions prior to his move to the North-East in the summer of 2021, when he got a move to Spennymoor Town.

He had impressed then Moors boss Tommy Miller whilst playing for Guiseley in a 2-0 victory the previous December.

Lufudu then moved to South Shields in the Summer of 2023 but unexpectedly in February 2024 he made a sensational loan move back to The Brewery Field until the end of the season.

In his first spell at Spennymoor Lufudu was an instant hit with the fans, his all action style and ferocious pace becoming a key feature of Moors’ attacking armoury.

His play earned him the accolade of Fans’ Player-of-the-Season.

Capable of operating in a more attacking role when called upon, Lufudu has also previously worn the colours of Tadcaster Albion, Carlton Town, Sheffield FC and Ashton United.

The 29 year-old was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo like his new teammate and good friend Lebrun Mbeka.

Although primarily regarded as an attack minded full-back Lufudu has shown real versatility throughout his career. Whilst at Sheffield FC he often played as a striker or on the wing.

Of his return to Guiseley Lufudu said: “Guiseley need to get back to where they belong in National North and I want to be a part of helping them to achieve that. That is the ambition of everyone at the club.”

He continued: “I will be back among friends and with most of the signings having played for the club before we should gel fairly quickly as a new team. We just need to work hard and demand high performances from each other. I cannot wait to get started.”

Of his new manager Mark Bower Lufudu said: “I have played against Mark’s teams and he is a good manager. He likes his players to express themselves but demands the best from them. He will always back them up.”

Of the Guiseley supporters he said: “They have a very good fan base that supports the players and pushes them to go one step further. I am really looking forward to seeing them again.”

The player, who has a job coaching outside of playing, is expecting to play full-back or wing-back at Guiseley. He said laughingly: “I have still got my pace, it is always there!”

John’s away and training kits are both available to sponsor – email admin@guiseleyafc.co.uk for more information.