Cobblers defender Horwood joins Grimsby Town on loan

NEW CHALLENGE - Evan Horwood has signed a loan deal with Grimsby Town

Manager Chris Wilder has decided to allow the 29-year-old to depart Sixfields, saying: “This is a good move for all parties.”

Horwood originally joined the Cobblers on loan in March, 2014, playing his part in ensuring the team avoided relegation from the Football League.

He signed a two-year deal in the summer of 2014, but has endured consistent injury problems and has failed to make a first-team appearance this season.

Horwood underwent a groin operation before the start of the campaign, and since regaining his fitness has been unable to oust first-choice left-back Dave Buchanan.

“This is a good move for all parties,” said Wilder.

“Evan turns 30 next month and he wants and needs to be playing games at this stage of his career.

“Because of the excellent form of David Buchanan he hasn’t been able to do that for us this season, so this move gives him the chance to go and play first team football and we wish him well.”

In all, Horwood made 34 appearances for the Cobblers, with his last being the 3-2 final-day defeat to Wycombe Wanderers last May.

At the Mariners, Horwood will be reunited with former Cobblers team-mate Gregor Robertson, who left for Blundell Park a year ago.

Grimsby are managed by Paul Hurst, and are currently sitting in third place in the National League and looking good for a place in the play-offs.