Ex Prem defender signs for eighth-tier club managed by former Man City striker

The 34-year-old, who clocked up over 230 Premier League appearances, will continue his career with the Northern Premier League club who described the acquisition as 'massive.'

A club statement read: "We are delighted to welcome former Burnley and Aston Villa defender Matt Lowton to the Albion … 34-year-old Matt has played over 230 Premier League games. His last PL game was [in] 21/22 for Burnley. Welcome to Witton Albion Matt."

Lowton began his career at Sheffield United after coming through the Blades' academy and had loan stints at Sheffield FC and Hungarian giants Ferencváros before making a £3million switch to Aston Villa in 2012.

The defender moved to Burnley in 2015 where he spent eight years and made almost 200 appearances before he was released this summer.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at Championship side Huddersfield, making eight appearances for the Terriers.

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Lowton underwent unsuccessful trials at Birmingham and Stockport prior to the start of the season but has now found his new home at Witton and could even make his debut against Newcastle Town this weekend.

Albion are currently in 13th place in the Northern Premier Division One West and sit six points adrift of the play-off positions.

Macken, who made 51 appearances for Manchester City between 2002 and 2005, took charge of Witton in 2022 following managerial roles at Radcliffe Borough and Colne.