SCOTT Dundas has praised Anthony Gardner’s attitude after Witton Albion’s former captain agreed a return to the club this week.

The defender announced his departure in April following the Northwich outfit’s relegation from the Northern Premier League’s top flight, declaring he needed a new challenge.
 


He had sat out the final two months of the campaign after he was punished for his part in an incident that took place in the social club at Wincham Park following a home game against Ramsbottom.

However Dundas, who succeeded Tony Sullivan as manager after he resigned at the end of the season, has persuaded the 24-year-old to sign on again.

“I don’t know the details of what happened before, nor have I asked about them,” said the former Norton boss.

“Shortly after I’d accepted the offer to take charge, I made a list of players from last season’s squad that I wanted in mine.

"Anthony’s name was on it because of the quality he has.

“I’ve met him a couple of times, and spoken to him on numerous occasions over the past few weeks.

“My first impression is a good one; he thinks a lot of the club, and wanted to come back.

“He was offered more money by other teams, but has chosen to be a part of what we’re trying to achieve here.”

Gardner hasn’t turned out in Albion’s colours since a 2-1 win against Ramsbottom on February 21.

Shortly after the final whistle, the full back is alleged to have threatened violence towards Sullivan in front of some of his teammates.

But nobody outside of the club knew an altercation had taken place before a post written by an anonymous author appeared the following day on an internet message board used by Witton supporters.

The ex-Cammell Laird man was disciplined – suspended by the club for a fortnight, fined and stripped of the captaincy – later the same week.

Chairman Mark Harris told the Guardian that Gardner then ‘made himself unavailable for selection’ after serving his ban.

Nor did he say sorry, according to the club.

In the hours after Albion’s demotion from the Premier Division was confirmed following a 3-2 defeat at relegation rivals Stamford – a game they needed to avoid losing to ensure survival – he tweeted:

 

 

On Wednesday Gardner, who has made close to 200 appearances for Witton, attempted to explain his decision tocome back.

He said: “I know a few fans may disagree with my return, but the past is the past.

“I just want to focus on playing football again, and getting the club promoted. It’s time now for the hard work to start.”

 

 

He joins John Shaw, Danny Andrews, Tom Schofield and Jon Dawson as players from last season’s squad who have agreed to play for Witton in Division One North.

Dundas says he is close to having the group he wants.

He added: “We’re not far off; I plan to speak to one or two more who I hope I can add to the 15 or so we’ve signed.

“I’m really pleased with what we’ve got up until now – if the season started tomorrow, I’d be happy to play the first game with the side I have.”