Jon Stead says Guy Branston played a key role in his move to Notts County.
The much-travelled former Oldham Athletic and Bradford City defender is now chief scout for the League II club, who have signed striker Stead on a two-year deal after his release by Huddersfield Town.
The Huddersfield-born 32-year-old, who had two spells at his hometown club, was linked with League I trio Barnsley, Chesterfield and Walsall.
But he plumped for Notts, who were relegated in May, and explained: “The move came through a lot of pestering from Guy Branston. I remember him as player and didn’t want to let him down.
“We kept in touch and had a few things lined up, but it felt like the right time and the club is showing great commitment to get on the right track and I wanted to be part of it.
“Guy told me about the project and the club moving forward, first of all getting back into League I and kicking on from there.
“And speaking to the manager (Ricardo Moniz) and hearing his philosophy, I’m interested to see how things pan out, and the manager made it clear I was wanted here.”
Stead will make a quick return to the John Smith’s Stadium when Notts, whose squad also includes former Town frontman Jimmy Spencer, visit in the first round of the Capital One Cup.
He scored for Town as they won 5-3 after extra time at Chesterfield in last season’s first round.
“I cannot wait to get going,” he said. “I’m hoping to bring goals, assists and consistency. I’ll always work hard even if I’m not playing well.”
As an emerging talent, Stead notched 24 goals in 76 games for Town to earn a £1.25m move to then-Premier League Blackburn Rovers in February 2004.
The former England Under 21 international later played for Sunderland, Sheffield United, Ipswich Town and Bristol City before rejoining Town two years ago.
His second stint brought 10 starts, 13 substitute appearances and three goals.
He spent the bull of last season on loan to Bradford City.
