Ian Richards Reunites with Defender Elliot Owen at Guiseley AFC

Guiseley AFC strengthens defence with signing from Stocksbridge Park Steels

Guiseley AFC has confirmed the signing of defender Elliot Owen from Stocksbridge Park Steels for an undisclosed fee. The 21-year-old, who was born in Harrogate, has signed an 18-month contract with the club and is expected to feature in the upcoming match against Hebburn Town.

Player background and career progression

Owen joined Stocksbridge Park Steels in the summer of the 2024-25 season, quickly establishing himself as a key player in the heart of their defence. During his first season, he made 55 appearances and received several Player of the Season awards from Stocksbridge. He was also named in the Northern Premier League (NPL) East Team of the Season for 2024-25, alongside current Guiseley forward Amir Berchil and former Guiseley Academy goalkeeper Declan Lambton.

Before his time at Stocksbridge, Owen was part of the York City Academy as a scholar and signed a professional contract with York City in July 2022. After his release in 2023, he played for Pontefract Collieries before moving to Stocksbridge, where his performances attracted attention.

Manager and player comments

Guiseley manager Ian Richards, who previously worked with Owen at Stocksbridge, expressed optimism about the signing:

• “Elliot was a huge factor in the success we achieved at Stocksbridge.”
• “He is a leader, a winner and someone who holds the highest standards for himself before he asks it of others.”
• “As a player, he is strong, aggressive, dominant in the air and scores vital goals from set pieces.”
• “He is still young and will continue to develop at Guiseley.”

Owen also commented on his move to Guiseley, highlighting the positive relationship with Richards and his coaching team:

• “It will be great to work with Ian and his team again. We have a great relationship and had great success together.”
• “Guiseley is a massive club with ambitions like my own, and I think we will be a perfect fit.”
• “The club is close to home, and I have family in Bradford, so I expect good support.”
• “I am looking forward to enjoying my football here and helping the team progress up the league.”

Upcoming fixtures

Owen is expected to be included in the squad for Guiseley’s next match against Hebburn Town, scheduled for 3:00 pm on 20 December 2025 in the Northern Premier League Premier Division.