Northampton Town have secured the signing of former Reading defender Nesta Guinness-Walker on a short-term deal following his release from the Royals earlier this summer.
The 25-year-old made nearly 40 appearances for Reading during his three-year stint but spent the last four months of his contract on loan at Stevenage. After being released in May, the ex-AFC Wimbledon player trained with the Professional Footballers’ Association’s (PFA) team for free agents, waiting for a new opportunity. Now, with injuries depleting Northampton’s defensive options, the versatile full-back becomes available to Jon Brady’s squad.
Manager Jon Brady, speaking to the club’s website, highlighted the importance of bringing in cover, especially with a hectic schedule ahead: “Luke Mbete has performed really well for us, but the injuries to Patrick Brough and Ali Koiki have left us a little short in that position. With a particularly busy run coming up over the next few months, we felt we needed to add some depth to the squad, and we are delighted to be able to bring in a player of Nesta’s quality and pedigree.”
Brady went on to emphasise how prepared they were to act swiftly: “While the transfer window may be closed, part of our recruitment work is to be aware of the players available so we are ready to move quickly to react to the circumstances that happen, and that is what we have done.”
Guinness-Walker, who has been staying sharp by training with the PFA squad, is ready to hit the ground running, as Brady explained: “He can affect games both from a defensive and attacking point of view. He is athletic and can get up and down the left-hand side. He has done well in League One over the last few seasons, he is a good age with a decent amount of exuberance.”
Brady also thanked the club’s hierarchy, stating: “I would like to thank the Chairman and the Board of Directors for their support in allowing us to bring Nesta in.”
Who is Nesta Guinness Walker?
Guinness-Walker began his footballing journey in the youth academy at Chelsea, where he developed his skills before moving on to the Metropolitan Police youth system. He then joined the academy of non-league side Wingate & Finchley, where he gained experience at the senior level, making several appearances for their first team in the 2017-18 season.
His performances caught the attention of AFC Wimbledon, where he signed in 2019. Guinness-Walker quickly established himself as a regular in the first team, making over 80 appearances for the League One side across three seasons. Known for his versatility and pace, the left-back impressed with his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.
In 2022, he secured a move to Reading, signing a two-year deal with the Championship club. He made close to 40 appearances for the Royals, although he spent the latter part of his time there on loan at Stevenage. Despite showing promise, he was released by Reading in 2023.
Notably, Guinness-Walker is the great-grandson of legendary actor Sir Alec Guinness, and he could face his former club Reading when Northampton take on the Royals on Boxing Day.
Writer’s View
This is a sensible and timely signing for Northampton Town. With injuries to key players such as Patrick Brough and Ali Koiki, Jon Brady needed to add depth on the left flank. Nesta Guinness-Walker offers versatility, athleticism, and recent experience at League One level, making him a valuable addition during this critical period of the season.
This move also showcases Northampton’s proactive approach to squad management. Even outside the transfer window, they’ve acted swiftly to bring in a player who has kept himself match-fit. Guinness-Walker’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively will undoubtedly strengthen Northampton’s options, and the Cobblers will hope he can make an immediate impact.
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