Fernando is a Diamond once again

Fernando Bell-Toxtle will be back in AFC Rushden & Diamonds colours next season

Midfielder returns to become club's first summer signing

AFC Rushden & Diamonds have completed their first summer signing with Fernando Bell-Toxtle returning to the club.

Bell-Toxtle made 15 appearances for the club at the start of the 2017-18 campaign before heading off to university.

While there, he played for the likes of Basford United, Grantham Town and Ilkeston Town.

However, with his studies now complete, Andy Peaks has made a move for the midfielder.

Bell-Toxtle said: “Firstly, I’m buzzing to be back and can’t wait to get the season going.

“Having had a brief stint here before, I know what the club is about and I feel as though I have a lot of unfinished business here.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge of giving the fans something to cheer about in what will hopefully be a successful season.”

Bell-Toxtle’s return came after a busy week for Diamonds, which saw them confirm 18 members of last season’s squad would be staying on for the next Southern League Premier Central campaign.

And boss Peaks added: “It is great news to get Fernando back at the club.

“Everyone saw the potential he had when he joined, and we were really sad to lose him whilst he went to University.

“He was my first call when I knew he had finished, and I can’t wait for him to show what he can do on the pitch this season.”