Eckersley signs for Latics

ATHLETIC have swooped to sign full-back Richard Eckersley on a three-month contract, subject to international clearance.

Eckersley came through the youth ranks at Manchester United, making two senior appearances before joining Burnley in 2009.

The 26 year old had loans at Plymouth, Bradford and Bury, before heading across the Atlantic to join Toronto FC in 2011. He then moved to New York Red Bulls last season and made nine appearances.

Worsley-born Eckersley returns to England to be closer to his family, and will wear the number 24 shirt during his time with Athletic.