HARRISON BURKE is looking forward to a new challenge after being signed by League Two Walsall.
Burke, a product of the Chester Academy, was a key member of the Blues’ side that reached the final of the National League North play-offs this season and he has completed a permanent transfer to the Bescot Stadium for a significant undisclosed fee.
Burke has made a total of 154 appearances for the Chester, which places him seventh in the club’s all-time list since reformation.
Manager Calum McIntyre told the club’s website: “You never enjoy seeing your best players leave the football club. But in this case, it is a move that is richly deserved and is the next step in Harrison’s career.
“His performances and development has quite rightly seen him earn the opportunity to progress up the football pyramid into the EFL and the professional game.
“Having worked with him as both man and boy for nearly a decade, I am so pleased his hard work, personality and dedication has delivered him this opportunity.
“Harrison has come through the Academy and comes from a terrific, supportive family. He has been excellent for Chester Football Club, and he moves on with the absolute best wishes of everyone at the club and in the knowledge that he will always be welcomed back here at a place that I hope he would see as his footballing home.
“I would like to take the opportunity to pay tribute to the Academy staff, past and present and all those involved in Harrison’s development. They know who they are and they know how hard they worked to establish and develop the Academy.
“Harrison becomes the fifth Academy graduate in seven years to progress for a transfer fee into the EFL. The Academy has now generated hundreds of thousands of pounds for the football club in player sales alone. To those that established the Academy nearly 15 years ago and to those that played their part in its successes, your commitment has delivered so much to this football club.
“We have worked hard to get the best deal for the football club and this is one of the most significant transfer fees the club has received since reforming and by far and away our biggest as a National League North club.”
In a post on X, Burke said: “After 11 unforgettable years, it’s time for me to take the next step.
“I’ll always cherish every moment playing for my hometown. The love and support from fans, players & staff means everything. Chester will always have a special place in my heart. Wishing you all the best.”
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