It’s shaping up to be a summer of intent at The Shay, as FC Halifax Town bolster their squad with a string of promising and proven signings. With a mix of youth, experience, and hunger to succeed, manager Adam Lakeland is putting the pieces together for what looks to be an exciting campaign. Let’s take a look at the new arrivals.
Dylan Crowe: A Defender with International Pedigree
Dylan Crowe joins the Shaymen after a solid season with King’s Lynn Town. A product of Ipswich Town’s academy, Crowe was capped at every England level from under-15 to under-18. After signing professionally with Ipswich in 2019 and making his debut in 2020, he went on to play for Torquay United in the National League and had a loan spell at Havant & Waterlooville.
His stint at King’s Lynn saw him play 63 times, contributing to their push for the playoffs. Crowe now reunites with Adam Lakeland in West Yorkshire, ready to make his mark on the Shaymen’s backline.
AJ Warburton: Versatility and Attack from the Wings
AJ Warburton brings energy and attacking flair after an impressive rise from Droylsden to Avro FC. Initially a right-back, Warburton transitioned into a winger role where he quickly found form—scoring and assisting 15 times for Droylsden during their playoff-chasing campaign.
Last season, he continued that momentum at Avro, scoring 11 goals in all competitions. Warburton’s versatility and pace make him a dynamic threat down the right.
Will Hugill: A Midfield Engine with Leadership Experience
Will Hugill arrives following his release from Burnley, where he captained the under-21s and made his first-team debut in the Carabao Cup. Hugill brings leadership and consistency in midfield, having enjoyed loan spells at Leek Town, Chester, and most recently, AFC Fylde.
At Fylde, Hugill made 26 league appearances, scoring twice and battling hard in a tough season. Now with FC Halifax Town, he’ll be looking to anchor the midfield and make an impact from the off.
David Kawa: Forward Firepower with an Eye for Goal
David Kawa joins following a standout season at Aveley in the National League South. With roots in the academies at Crystal Palace and AFC Wimbledon, Kawa found his feet at Sevenoaks Town before being signed by Peterborough United.
After a year with the Posh under-21s, he moved to Aveley and delivered 11 goals and 3 assists—nearly a third of their season’s output. Despite a tough campaign for the club, Kawa’s sharp instincts and attacking presence shone through.
Cody Johnson: Midfield Grit and Familiar Faces
Midfielder Cody Johnson signs for the Shaymen after his release from Stockport County. A product of the club’s academy, Johnson impressed early with a man-of-the-match display in the FA Trophy before loan spells with Stockport Town and Banbury United.
His most recent stint came with King’s Lynn Town, where he made 38 league appearances under Adam Lakeland, helping the team to a 6th-place finish. Johnson now reunites with Lakeland at Halifax, bringing reliability, energy, and familiarity to the midfield setup.
As the pre-season builds momentum, FC Halifax Town fans have plenty to be excited about. With hungry young talents and experienced heads arriving at The Shay, the new-look squad promises an ambitious and competitive edge for the season ahead.
