John Paul Kissock has joined Athletic on loan from Macclesfield Town until the end of the season.
The attacking midfielder started his career in Everton's youth system a a 7-year-old and signed his first professional contract at Goodison Park when he was 16.
He moved on loan to SPL side Gretna and also had a loan spell at Accrington Stanley before being released by Everton at the end of the 2008/9 season. From there JP joined Hamilton Academicals before moving back to England. Spells with Newton, Formby and Southport followed before he was snapped up by Luton Town at the start of the 2011/12 season. He then joined Macclesfield Town in January 2013 after spending some time with them on loan.
Manager Lee Johnson said, "JP is an interesting one, he is someone I have followed for a long time. I have always thought he was a really good player. It may appear to be an unfashionable signing, but sometimes as a manager you have to weigh up the value, age, pedigree and talent and take a chance. This is such an occasion."
"He is certainly hungry, and with the pedigree he has got he needs to play with players that can fit with a similar style. It's up to him now to show is worthy of being a League One player, if not above. The lads have really taken to him as he has something different and he can certainly add to our game, whether it be from the bench or starting."
Kissock added, "It's an unbelievable opportunity that the gaffer has offered me. To be back in the Football League after a few years in non-league is something I have worked hard for. I am delighted to be given this chance and I am really looking forward to being part of the squad."