Butch to Cobblers?

Transfer-listed Richard Butcher has reportedly held talks with Northampton Town

The midfielder, who started 35 games for Posh last season, could be set to make a surprise move back to his first professional club.

'Butch' was a trainee at Sixfields before joining Rushden and Diamonds in 2000. He signed for Kettering in August 2001, where he made an admirable impression among the home fans, scoring four times in fourteen matches.

A year on, the combative midfielder linked up with Keith Alexander at Lincoln City, where he went on to make almost a hundred appearances in three seasons.

After suffering play-off misery with the Imps, out-of-contract Butcher left Sincil Bank for an improved offer at League One Oldham. However, the midfielder endured an abysmal stint at the club, and was on the receiving end of a chorus of boos from the Oldham fans during several games. Determined to leave the club, the 26-year-old returned to Lincoln on a month long loan deal.

Last June, Keith Alexander made Butcher his third signing as Posh boss. The player enjoyed a decent first season at London Road, and was one of the few to emerge with credit from Alexander's leadership.

But, now surplus to requirements under Darren Ferguson, Richard is strongly expected to sign for the League One club this week.

Vital Posh wish him all the best with his future career.

VITAL POSH

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