Anthony, elder brother of Danny Pilkington, was probably one of the finds of 2006-07 following his arrival at Edgeley Park from Atherton Collieries, where he caught many people's attention with a superb hat-trick against FC United.

Preston North End, Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers all had Anthony on their books but, like many youngsters, he failed to make the grade.

He came to County's attention whilst playing for Myerscough College where accepted the Hatters' offer of a professional contract.

Anthony, who has represented British Catholic Colleges and the England College Under-19 side, made an immediate impact at EP with three goals in his first four appearances for his new club. He played a major role in County's famous nine-game-run during the 06/07 season.

The following season, his five goals in 29 league games from the wing helped County cement a playoff place, and he scored the second of County's three goals against Rochdale at Wembley to win promotion.

In October 2008, Anthony was given a surprise call-up to the Republic of Ireland U21 side to replace the injured James McCarthy, and started as they recorded a 3-0 win in a friendly in Lithuania.