Europa goal hero Jordan returns to Leek Town

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Published: Friday, 15 August 2014 11:30

EUROPA League goal hero Jordan Johnson has ended a second but brief spell with the Wingmakers by returning to Leek Town.

Director of football Andy Preece had been keen to retain the services of the 27-year-old midfielder, but the Stafford-based teacher felt he was unable to commit due to an increasing workload.

When Johnson, who scored 36 goals for Leek last season, decided to return to the Hollingsworth Group Stadium, his manager Lee Caswell admitted that his departure would leave "a big hole to fill".

"He signed a contract at Airbus as he decided it was too good an opportunity to miss," he said.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for him, and he will travel with the Airbus squad to Norway next week for the second leg.

"That is how Jordan spelled it out to me, but there are issues regarding the travelling involved in playing in the Welsh League which he has struggled with in the past.

"If that hasn't changed, then I am pretty sure he will be back at Leek Town next season."

Formerly with AFC Telford United and Northwich Victoria, Johnson made an explosive return to Airbus, scoring in the 29th-minute of the Europa League first qualifying round tie against FK Haugesund.

He also started in the second leg, achieving his ambition of playing in Europe.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old goalkeeper Connor Wearing has returned to Llandudno for a second loan spell.

Highly-rated by Wingmakers' goalkeeper coach Chris Doran and 'Tudno boss Alan Morgan, Wearing kept in a clean sheet when he deputised for James Coates in the pre-season game against Trafford and his loan club.

A product of the Liverpool academy, he moved to Shrewsbury Town in 2012 where he also spent time on work experience with Market Drayton Town.

Photo: Jordan Johnson celebrates his Europa League goal against Haugesund.