Since joining Ossett Town in December 2012, 26 year old Danny Patterson has established himself in the centre of Craig Elliott’s midfield and also been given the captains armband on four occasions when James Cotterill has been unavailable.

He started the season at NCEL side Parkgate FC, a side that were focused on promotion to the Evo-stick this season. An achievement they looked like fulfilling until a dispute at management level saw them lose funding and then players; including Keir Hannity who made the move to Ingfield shortly before Danny.

Before that Patterson spent 18 months at Handsworth where he captained the side to the NCEL division 1 title and Presidents cup in 2011/2012, a double not often achieved. Runners up in the league last season were Craig Elliott’s former side, Glasshoughten Welfare. Patterson has been a regular at that level since the age of 17, making over 200 appearances for Hallam FC as well as spells at Thackley and Stocksbridge Park Steels.

With the side at Parkgate breaking up Patterson did not take much convincing to move north to Ossett Town and the Evo-Stick league. He was keen on the challenge and having played in the NCEL for a number of years was ready to make the step up.

Patterson admits he had a slow start at the club but is now getting used to the league, is enjoying playing for The Reds and always looking to improve; Danny loved being named captain in the amazing 3-2 win at Lancaster City but admits he is glad James Cotterill is back in the side as he is a massive player for the team.

Manager Craig Elliott who is, according to Danny, tactically aware and very specific about all aspects of the game – something Danny likes in a manager. His Team talks are always motivational and get the lads up for every game.

Away from football Patterson gets to the gym a couple of times a week and has a two year old daughter so his spare time is at a premium ”she is a handful like all small children and I love chasing her about all day”. When he does get a moment to himself he enjoys playing and watching golf.

Since joining Ossett Town and making his debut in the 2-2 draw with Warrington Town on 15 December, Danny Patterson has gone on to make 21 appearances to date, including four as captain. Scoring one goal against Curzon Ashton in February, a bullet header made the score 1-1 on the day, but the visitors took the points with a 4-1 win