We are very pleased to announce the appointment of Farsley Celtic legend Chris Atkinson as the club’s first team captain for the forthcoming 23/24 season.

Chris, who has been at the club since 2017 after joining from Salford, has been an ever present in the midfield performing consistently under a number of managers.

As of July 2023, Atkinson has made 271 appearances in a Farsley shirt, the most of any player still at the club.

Chairman Paul Barthorpe was full of praise for the new captain, saying: “Chris is a strong leader both on and off the field, he is well respected and liked across the whole club.

“Personally I am very pleased with this appointment. It is thoroughly deserved and Chris has shown time and time again his love and passion for this club and I believe it is a role he will be very successful in!

“I don’t think there will be anyone at the club who doesn’t think Chris is the right man for the job.

Congratulations Chris!”

Pav Singh, Director of Football said: “Chris has demonstrated his leadership capabilities on many occasions, through both his actions and his communication skills. He has a great understanding of the game and brings passion and commitment to the role. There is no doubt in my mind he will step up to this responsibility and be very successful”

Farsley Head Coach Clayton Donaldson added: “Chris Atkinson has been a great servant for the club, he’s experienced, got leadership qualities and is a really good footballer who can play in numerous positions which we will need in the upcoming season. I’ve got every faith In Chris to lead by example, especially with the young players coming through.”

Chris gave his thoughts on his appointment saying: “I joined Farsley in February 2017 on loan from Salford, shortly after signing officially for the club. Everyone at the club has been brilliant with me ever since I joined.
“It is an honour to be appointed as the club captain. I’m looking forward to leading the lads out and having a successful season. I feel it is the right stage of my career to have this responsibility and my experience will help the team out, both on and off the pitch.

“Pre season is going really well. All the lads have come back fit and in good shape. It’s all about building the fitness slowly and keeping the lads injury free so everyone is in peak condition for the opening day!
The lads can’t wait to get going.

“Up the celts”