FC Halifax Town have bolstered their squad with two exciting additions as preparations for the 2025/26 National League campaign continue to gather pace.
Right winger AJ Warburton and central midfielder Will Hugill are the latest players to join Adam Lakeland’s squad at The Shay.
Halifax Add Warburton and Hugill in Double Swoop
The Shaymen have announced the signings of Warburton from Avro FC and Hugill following his departure from Burnley, as new manager Adam Lakeland continues reshaping his squad ahead of the new season.
Warburton, 21, arrives after a productive season in the Northern Premier League Division One West, where he scored 11 goals for Avro. His journey to The Shay has been unorthodox—having originally played as a right back for Droylsden, he was moved further forward in 2023/24 and thrived in his new attacking role, contributing 15 goals and assists as the Bloods reached the playoffs. Warburton’s versatility and eye for goal will add depth and dynamism to the Shaymen’s wide options.
Meanwhile, Hugill brings National League experience, having featured on loan for both Chester and Fylde last season. The 21-year-old began his career at Burnley, where he captained the under-21s and made his senior debut in the League Cup against Wolves in August 2024. His performances have earned praise for his composure in possession and box-to-box energy, qualities that will be invaluable as Halifax target a play-off push.
Hugill becomes the fourth new arrival under Lakeland, following the earlier signings of Cody Johnson, Dylan Crowe, and Warburton. With momentum building at The Shay, the club are making deliberate moves to reinforce all areas of the pitch.
“Buzzing to sign for @FCHTOnline, can’t wait to get going,” Warburton wrote on social media, while Hugill added, “Delighted to get this sorted, let’s go.”
Halifax will hope their new recruits can help improve on last season’s mid-table finish and mount a more sustained challenge for promotion. Both players bring hunger, youth, and a point to prove—key characteristics as Lakeland continues building a competitive and resilient squad.
Writer’s View
These are the types of signings that show FC Halifax Town are operating with intent and precision. AJ Warburton arrives with raw talent and goals from wide areas, while Will Hugill offers bite and composure in midfield.
Adam Lakeland is wasting no time in putting his stamp on this team, and with four new faces already through the door, Halifax look well-placed to be one of the more active and astute clubs in the National League transfer window.
