FORMER Bradford and Port Vale defender Paul West has brought an end to an injury-hit spell at his hometown club by rejoining Evesham United.

The Reds stopper, who played in the First Division for Vale, linked up with Phil Mullen again at the weekend after being offered a loan spell at Midland Alliance basement boys Oldbury United.

West was brought to the Valley by former manager Nicky Cross, a team mate of his in the Potteries, but suffered a serious knee injury shortly after signing, in the FA Cup replay against Gresley.

While out injured Cross left the club and West added a second side to his managerial CV when chairman Rod Laight asked him to take charge of the team for a madcap 5-4 League Cup win at Stourport.

But it was back to the treatment table the next day after the arrival of Rod Brown from Walshes Meadow, and after only a handful of matches following his return to fitness, West has returned to Common Road.

"I'm disappointed things didn't work out," said West, "because I'm a local lad and it was a pleasure to play for and manage my home town side.

"But I picked up a bad injury and waited along with everyone else for the new manager after Nicky left, and things didn't work out.

"I have to thank everyone at the club for being so supportive and hope I will be back at the Valley in the near future."

West was hoping to make his return for the Robins at home to Stourport last night and could make a playing return against United at the Valley on Monday, April 1.