Malone leaves Steelmen to sign for Stamford

Steelmen manager Tommy Wright confirmed the news this morning (Friday) following a “long discussion” with the centre-half at training last night.

Malone had just recently returned to playing following a 10-month spell on the sidelines after he suffered a horrific broken leg during the 5-1 victory over Weymouth at Steel Park in February last year.

The popular defender had seemed likely to play a key role in the run-in as Corby bid to survive in the Vanarama National League North.

But boss Wright has now revealed Malone is set to sign a contract with the Daniels, who play in the Evo-Stik Northern League Premier Division and for whom he made a couple of appearances to aid his return to full fitness.

However, the Corby manager insists “the door isn’t shut” for Malone at Steel Park.

Wright said: “After a long discussion with Paul at training last night, he has decided he wants to drop a level to go and sign for Stamford where he feels more comfortable playing after 10 months out.

“Also the lure of a contract that Stamford are in a position to offer gives him the security he feels he needs in case he gets injured again.

“We wish him well and the door isn’t shut. “I don’t think it’s a case of him jumping ship.

“I thank Molly for supporting me on a personal level and class him as a friend.”

The Steelmen are without a league game this weekend but have organised a friendly away at Coventry Sphinx for tomorrow (12.30pm kick-off).