PAUL Carden admits he did not think Warrington Town would be able to secure midfielder Scott Brown’s return to the club.

The experienced midfielder, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Cantilever Park last season, is back at the club having been borrowed from League Two side Harrogate Town for the entire 2020-21 campaign.

Carden thanked Harrogate for giving them a great deal to bring the 34-year-old back in and he says his influence upon the team will only grow with time.

“It was one we spoke about but we didn’t think we would get,” the Town boss said.

“Harrogate have done us a right touch with the deal they have given us because we shouldn’t have him for what we’re contributing. I want to thank them for it.

“We didn’t think we’d get Scotty with the offer we’ve made but he will be a great signing.

“You can see the influence he has on games and he’ll only get better as he gets more match fit.”

Yellows take on Gainsborough Trinity at Cantilever Park on Saturday in what will be their first home league game of the season.

Having kicked off with an impressive 2-0 win at Basford United last weekend before exiting the FA Cup on penalties at the hands of South Shields on Tuesday, Yellows are yet to concede a goal in 180 minutes of competitive football.

However, Carden expects that record to come under strict examination from Saturday’s visitors.

“We know they’re going to be a tough side and they were in good form when last season stopped,” he said.

“Curtis Woodhouse (Gainsborough manager) has done well with them and looks to have put his own stamp on things.

“They look to be playing the way he wants and they’re scoring goals.

“Nothing changes but I believe if we’re at, we’re as tough a nut to crack as anyone in the league.”