Darren was a vastly experienced defender who had started his career as a trainee with Bristol Rovers - going on to make 37 appearances for them. He joined Newport County in October 1987 for a small fee (prior to them going out of business) before securing another move to Sheffield United in March 1988, where he came to the notice of several other League Clubs. In September 1990, he joined Crewe Alexandra for £35,000, where he remained for three seasons. Another big money move followed in the summer of 1993, when he joined Chesterfield for £30,000, making 112 appearnaces. He featured in their historic FA Cup run in the 1996/1997 season, reaching the semi-finals before going out in a replay. After spending the 1998/1999 season at Gillingham, he joined Brighton & Hove Albion for another five figure sum the following season, but found himself out of favour after just 26 games. Loan periods followed with Rotherham United, Lincoln City and Carlisle United in early 2001, before he was released at the end of the season. After being unable to secure a deal, he joined Dover Athletic on non-contract terms in October 2001, before arriving at Nene Park in January 2002 on a similar deal.

With Ray Warburton struggling to return from an injury layoff, and Jim Rodwell and Mark Peters both picking up injuries, Diamonds had been forced to use Paul Underwood at centre back. Darren was brought in as short notice cover after a trial game against Oxford United on 23 January 2002. His only game for Diamonds was in the 5-1 defeat at Hartlepool United on 26 January 2002. After conceding two goals in quick succession and going three goals down, he was substituted by John Dempster after 66 minutes. He was released the following month and joined Bath City, where he decided to retire from the game later that year. He returned to his home town of Bristol, and is now involved in a Property Development Business which he helped set up with some of his former school friends.

Appearances

2001/2002 - squad number 36

D3

26.1.02

Hartlepool Utd (A)