Swindon Town have completed the short-term signing of midfielder Danny Butterworth on a contract running until February 2027. The 26-year-old returns to the County Ground after a lengthy injury absence, as confirmed by a report from the BBC this week.
Butterworth initially joined the club in August 2024 and went on to make 40 appearances, scoring six goals and providing two assists. His progress was halted early in the 2025-26 campaign when a hamstring injury suffered after just 11 appearances ruled him out for the entire season. He has spent the last ten months in rehabilitation before being invited to train with the squad during pre-season, which has now led to this new five-month deal.
What does Danny Butterworth bring to the squad?
Danny Butterworth offers Swindon Town a familiar attacking option in midfield. His previous spell demonstrated a capacity to contribute goals from the centre of the park, a valuable asset for a side that has scored just twice in its opening three League Two matches. The club currently sits 14th in the table with four points from a win, a draw and a loss. His return adds depth to a squad navigating the early stages of the season, which you can track on our standings page.
His experience from his time at Blackburn Rovers and his knowledge of the club's setup should allow for a swift reintegration. Manager Gavin Gunning will be hoping Butterworth can quickly recapture the form he showed before his setback.
How does his return fit the current season's context?
Butterworth's signing comes at a point where Swindon are looking to build momentum. Their recent form reads LWD, and with a goal difference of -2 after conceding four times, adding a player of his profile could help solidify the team's offensive output. The club finds itself three points behind early leaders Barnet, indicating the title race remains wide open in these initial stages.
His short-term contract provides a low-risk opportunity for both player and club to assess his fitness and impact. If he proves his fitness and form, it could lead to discussions about a longer stay beyond February. For now, his immediate focus will be on earning a place in the matchday squad and contributing to the team's push up the table.
What was the process of his return?
The path back to a professional contract was a long one for Danny Butterworth. After missing nearly a full year of football, he was given the chance to prove his fitness during the club's summer preparations. His performances in training evidently convinced the coaching staff to offer him a route back.
"Its probably been a long time coming with the time I've been out and going through the rehab over the past 10 months or so," Butterworth told the BBC. "It's been tough, but to finally get something signed here, I'm really happy about it." This candid quote underscores the challenging journey back from a serious injury. Fans can monitor the availability of all players on the club's injuries page.
Swindon Town will be hoping Butterworth's return provides a timely boost as they look to close the gap on the teams above them. His contract is set to expire in February 2027.
