Welcome to Yorkshire
Published on July 28th, 2026
•FC Halifax Town has exciting news for its supporters with the announcement of the signing of defender Max Bardell. This move comes after Bardell's recent departure from Buxton, where he made a significant impact last season.
Max Bardell's Journey
Bardell's football journey began in the youth academies of prominent clubs like Huddersfield Town and Manchester City. In 2019, he moved to Derby County, initially signing a scholarship deal. His hard work paid off, and by the summer of 2021, he had secured his first professional contract with the Rams. Bardell quickly became a key player for Derby's under-21 team and even featured in some matchday squads for the first team, showing his potential and readiness for higher competition. In January 2023, his commitment was recognised with a contract extension.
Loan Spells and Challenges
In October 2024, Bardell took on a new challenge by joining AFC Fylde on a one-month loan in the National League. This loan was successful enough to be extended multiple times, ultimately lasting until the end of the season. During his time at Fylde, Bardell made 27 appearances. However, despite his efforts, the team faced difficulties and was relegated to the National League North.
Success at Buxton
After his time with Derby County, Bardell moved to Buxton in the summer of 2025, where he quickly established himself as a vital player. Over the course of the season, he made an impressive 40 league appearances. His contributions were recognised by his teammates when he was awarded the title of players’ player of the season, a testament to his skill and hard work on the pitch. Under the management of John McGrath, Buxton finished 5th in the league, showcasing the team’s competitive spirit.
