Excitement rippled through the Chester FC fanbase in July 2024 when the ‘King’ returned to CH1 on a season-long loan from Oldham Athletic. Willoughby first joined the Seals in the summer of 2022 and was a huge hit in his solo season with the Blues. Willoughby scored 27 goals in 52 appearances as we finished 3rd, winning the Gary Talbot Golden Boot and the Goal of the Season – as well as being recognised in the Vanarama National League North Team of the Season. Kurt joined National League side Oldham in summer 2023 and made 17 appearances for the Latics last term. He ended the season on loan at Scottish Championship side Ayr United – scoring three times in eleven appearances.