Altrincham FC Archived News

In the Sale & Altrincham Messenger press and media officer John Edwards writes that manager "Neil Gibson ordered his Altrincham players in for Sunday morning training after their preparations for the new season suffered an unexpected jolt with a crushing home defeat to fierce local rivals Macclesfield.

Right: Kian Breckin is effectively a new player at Altrincham, having managed to play for just eleven minutes after signing last season in February 2026 but suffering an injury on debut which ended his season.

With defensive fallibility a particular concern, Gibson decided there was no time to lose, and his players were being put through their paces at Alty's Egerton training ground less than 24 hours after Saturday's final whistle...

Said the Alty boss... 'They probably showed more desire than we did...

'Last season, after I arrived at the club, it seemed like we had really improved at dealing with set-pieces but, today, we conceded two goals from set-pieces, as we did at Colwyn Bay in our opening friendly.

'So, the players will be back in at Egerton tomorrow morning, and certainly one of the aspects we will be poring over will be how we can do better in those situations...

'We are a bit behind in terms of minutes on the pitch, because of the debacle of the Wythenshawe game and the fact that the injuries we picked up prior to it being abandoned meant we couldn't field a team at Vauxhall Motors the following Saturday, so there are areas we need to work on.'"

NEXT: MANCHESTER UNITED UNDER-21S

Altrincham supporters will be hoping to witness their team's first win of the pre-season period when Manchester United bring their under-21 team to the J. Davidson Stadium on Friday evening (7pm).

Although Altrincham did secure a win at Tranmere Rovers last Tuesday, that was a fixture played behind closed doors.

The match on Friday evening will be the last pre-season game before the National League season kicks off on Saturday, 8th August, when Southend United will be the visitors.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The BBC confirms that "Gateshead have signed defender KYLE FERGUSON on a two-year deal.

The 26-year-old was released by Yeovil Town at the end of his contract earlier this summer.

Ferguson has appeared at National League level for the Glovers, Altrincham and Rochdale.

He told the club website, external that manager Lee Cattermole was 'a big reason' in his decision to sign, adding: 'The way he wants to build the team and the direction he wants to take the club sounds like something I would really like to be involved in.'"

AFC Fylde pose the question "Would you like to be the next Syd the Seagull, AFC Fylde's beloved mascot?

AFC Fylde are on the lookout for someone to help make matchdays at Mill Farm an unforgettable experience for every fan.

As the club's official mascot, you'll entertain and interact with supporters in and around the ground before the match and at half time, contributing to a family-friendly and exciting atmosphere.

Are you a bubbly, fun and enthusiastic person who loves entertaining and putting a smile on faces?

If you tick all those boxes, you will fly as Syd the Seagull!".

Aldershot Town proclaim, "The ATFC 26/27 open day has been confirmed to be held at The EBB Stadium on Thursday the 13th of August, just two days before our home league opener against Hartlepool United....

Gates will open from 10:45am... before Scott Davies and the squad lace up for an open training session on the EBB pitch from 11am.

This session will run for 90 minutes, shortly after which the squad will come down to the front of the ground for an informal meet and greet.

The Shots Foundation will be hosting a number of interactive games to get involved with the players during this time, such as their inflatable mini pitch and table tennis.

Finally, supporters are welcome to attend our annual stadium tour, hosted by Commercial Manager and Club Record goal scorer, Mark Butler!".

Harrogate Town "confirm the signing of experienced defender Tom Lees.

Lees joins the club having accumulated close to 700 professional appearances at some of the country’s biggest clubs...

Tom after signing [said]'I've had a few offers in the Football League, but after sitting down and talking with the club, there's an exciting couple of years in store here and the start of a good project.”

'I've lived in this town for most of my life, this is my local club, it means a lot to me to be involved and hopefully have a positive impact on my local team'...

The 35-year-old started his career at Leeds United... following impressive loan spells in League Two with Accrington and Bury.

The defender would then make the switch to South Yorkshire and Sheffield Wednesday where Lees would make 249 appearances across seven seasons.

Four seasons at Huddersfield followed, before Lees opted to spend the 2025/26 season with Peterborough...

Harrogate Town Also "confirm Anthony O’Connor has left the club by mutual consent.

The 33-year-old year-old signed in January 2023 and would make 149 appearances during his three-and-a-half years at the club".

There are four players who have turned out for Altrincham in the list of squad numbers issued by Scunthorpe United

In the list below those players are capitalised.

1 - Louis Jones, 2 - Oli Rose, 3 - Branden Horton, 4 - Jean Belehouan, 5 - Will Evans, 6 - Callum Howe, 7 - DECLAN HOWE, 8 - Alfie Beestin, 9 - Danny Whitehall, 10 - Luke Brennan, 11 - Joe Rowley, 14 - Pat Jones, 17 - Connor Smith, 18 - Kyle Hurst, 19 - Jordan Richards, 21 - Joe Starbuck, 22 - REAGAN OGLE, 23 - Jacob Butterfield, 24 - Harry Shipstone, 25 - Maison Campbell, 31 - JAMES GALE, 33 - Tyler Denton, 44 - ROSS BARROWS

Kidderminster Harriers manager "Paul Wotton spoke warmly of his first experience in the Aggborough dugout after watching Harriers play out a goalless draw with Alvechurch...

'It’s a beautiful club, brilliant club, really friendly people,' said Wotton. 'I met a lot of the stewards and stuff tonight, a lot of the matchday staff, which was great'...

He explained, 'The players are new, aren’t they? It’s a beautiful pitch, it’s a great stadium, so I’m looking forward to many more games here'.

On the pitch, Wotton... admitted... 'We got the runaround at times,' he admitted... 'I was disappointed with us in possession today. We looked a bit leggy as well... So it’s a good workout. Lots of boys have got 90 minutes and there’s one game to go...

'Overall, I was just a bit disappointed in our play with the ball. Out of possession, we were industrious and worked hard.'”

Off the field Kidderminster Harriers "are thrilled to find out that Aggborough has been ranked third for matchday hospitality in non-league football by renowned football food reviewers The Padded Seat...

The Padded Seat visited Aggborough in April 2026, with their video review gaining over 500,000 views across their platforms.

The accolade reflects the outstanding quality of both the matchday hospitality experience in The Aggborough Suite and the food served from the stadium’s kiosks".

Worthing "confirm we have accepted the invite to participate in the 2026/27 edition of the National League Cup

The Club was honoured to receive the invitation from the National League and after taking careful consideration and all factors into account, decided to enter the competition for the inaugural time.

Facing Premier League academy sides at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium and having another piece of silverware to compete for is recognised as another positive step in our evolution on and off the pitch.

The competition will aid our awareness of players at the level which may be available for loan, while also assisting the Club in building lasting relationships with clubs we may not have had the privilege to interact with otherwise. Furthermore, it’s seen as another avenue for our highly-thought of youth prospects to be awarded opportunities in a first-team environment".

30 July 2026

NEXT: MANCHESTER UNITED U-21S

On Friday (k.o. 7pm) Altrincham complete their pre-season fixtures when they host Manchester United's under-21 team.

The sides last met in 2024 in the National League Cup.

In that match, played on Tuesday, 19 November 2024, United ran out 4-0 victors. In contrast to the current warm summer weather, that game was played in sub-zero conditions which, nevertheless, were braved by 3,663 hardy souls.

A hat-trick of well-taken goals by left-winger Ethan Ennis helped a slick and skilful Manchester United under-21 side to a 4-0 win over a fairly strong Altrincham team but it was by no means as one-sided a game as the outcome suggests. Former Alty loanee keeper Dermot Mee in the United goal was arguably the busier of the two teams' keepers making four or five decent saves.

Alty's indisposed Ethan Ross's goalkeeping understudy, Harvey Randle, suffered a leg injury as early as the sixth minute of this match. After treatment, 17 year-old substitute keeper Louie Fallon had to replace him.

Right: Justin Donawa is seen during his Alty debut against United.

Altrincham's line-up comprised 30. Harvey RANDLE, 2. Lewis BANKS, 4. Lewis BAINES (c), 5. Jake COOPER, 23. Tylor GOLDEN, 6. Elliot OSBORNE, 8. Isaac MARRIOTT, 14. Matty KOSYLO, 20. Kharel REDDIN, 33. Justin DONAWA 29. Jake BICKERSTAFF. Subs: 3. Eddy JONES, 16. James JONES, 10. Alex NEWBY, 24. Joe NUTTALL. 19. George WILSON, 22. Tom CRAWFORD, 27. Louie FALLON

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports:

Champions League Qualifier : Larne were already 4 goals down on aggregate before they kicked off in Belgrade against Red Star, and MONTEL GIBSON only came off the bench in the 79th minute, immediately after the hosts had scored their 5th goal to wrap up a 9-0 victory.

Friendly : ETHAN ROSS was again missing from the Forest Green Rovers team who came back from 2 goals down to beat visitors Bristol City 3-2.

KHAN TO MISS SEVERAL WEEKS?

Pakistan will be competing in the ASEAN Cup, to be held in Indonesia from September 21 to October 6

It will be Pakistan's first appearance in a FIFA-sanctioned event.

It would seem likely that Altrincham midfielder Otis Khan (left) will be called up to continue his international career with the Pakistan side which, of course, would mean that he would miss several Altrincham games.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Eastleigh "announce the arrival of defender Reece Johnson, who joins the Spitfires on a season-long loan from Sheffield Wednesday.

The 20-year-old arrives at the Silverlake Stadium after gaining valuable first-team experience during his breakthrough season in senior football, making 12 Championship appearances for the Owls..

The left-back quickly established himself within the first-team, starting four consecutive Championship fixtures between January and February, completing the full 90 minutes on two occasions".

Solihull Moors "confirm that Damson Park will become a fully cashless stadium from the Club's first home National League fixture of the 2026/27 season on Saturday 15th August.

The move follows the successful introduction of cashless payments within the Jerroms Suite last season and forms part of the Club's continued efforts to improve stadium operations, enhance security and transition towards a fully electronic payment system.

Supporters attending home fixtures will be able to make purchases using contactless, Chip & PIN, Apple Pay and Google Pay across the stadium. Please note that American Express (Amex) cards will not be accepted.

The move to a cashless system will apply across the entire stadium. This includes all food and beverage outlets, bars, the Club Shop, match ticket purchases and parking. Supporters can continue to purchase tickets online in advance or by card on the day of the match".

On Tuesday night, a Tamworth side took on a Macclesfield FC side which had defeated Altrincham 5-2 at the J Davidson Stadium last weekend.

"The Lambs were forced to settle for a draw after Dan Creaney had given the Lambs a first half lead...

In perhaps the strongest test of pre-season so far, Lambs boss Andy Peaks continued his preparations by shuffling his pack slightly again, with a 3-5-2 formation pairing Dan Creaney and Kieren Donnelly up front while John Rooney’s Macclesfield... arrived at The Lamb with an unbeaten pre-season record.

At Worthing "Central defender Jayden Moore has joined the Reds on loan from Championship side Southampton...

The 6’4 centre-back made his debut for the Reds in last night’s 2-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion U21s...

Capable of playing on either side of a back four and in midfield, Moore is the next promising talent to join on a temporary basis... following QPR loanee Cory Adjetey-Brew and Hull City talent Ramell Carter through the door this week...

This is Moore’s second senior loan spell following a short stint at National League side Eastleigh in the latter stages of the 2025/26 season...

Moore has been on the books at his parent club Southampton since the age of eight".

29 July 2026

TRANMERE ROVERS XI 1-3 ALTRINCHAM

On Tuesday, goals from Barnes, Crawford and Barlow secured Altrincham's first win of pre-season, behind closed doors, against a Tranmere side comprising four trialists, several new signings, student players and a couple or so of first-team squad members.

ODDS ON ALTY

As the National League prepares for its 2026-27 season which kicks off on 8 August, a number of sports betting companies have issued their perspective on the outcome of the season ahead.

Whilst the bookies are not always right, their odds for the coming season make worrying reading for Altrincham supporters.

As of Tuesday Altrincham were rated 24th in Bet365's National League championship betting with their odds set at 250-1. Likewise, SkyBet has Alty, jointly with Wealdstone, as the rank outsiders for the title, also at odds of 250-1.

BetFair has Altrincham joint bottom of the odds with Hornchurch and Eastleigh, whilst Bet Fred has Altrincham and Wealdstone in the same position at odds of 200-1.

Presumably these gloomy predictions are based on the Robins' losing three key players over the summer in Marriott, Golden and Crankshaw on top of losing their three top scorers in the previous season (Linney, Newby and Amaluzor).

And this summer's disjointed pre-season in which one match was abandoned before half-time and another cancelled at short notice, combined with a failure to win any of the three matches played so far, all against lower-ranked opposition, have not boosted optimism at the bookies. However, Alty have not fielded their best eleven in these matches, in which the emphasis has been, rather, on gaining pitch-time for all of the squad and experimenting with formations.

So, before gloom overtakes supporters we must remember that the bookmakers are not always right and that pre-season results are not necessarily the best indicator of how a season will unfold.

NEXT: MANCHESTER UNITED U21s

Altrincham's second and final home game of the summer takes place on Friday (31st) when Manchester United bring an under-21 squad to face the Robins at the J. Davidson Stadium. The match is a 7pm kick-off.

The last pre-season clash between the two sides came in summer 2023 when, in a rare Sunday match, Altrincham won 2-0. The two second-half goals, by Conn-Clarke and Amaluzor, were gifted to Alty be mis-placed passes by United players.

MULLARKEY FOLLOWS LINNEY TO CARLISLE

They are title-favourites with many people and Carlisle United "announce the arrival of TOBY MULLARKEY (right) from Fleetwood Town on a half-season loan deal...

During four seasons with Altrincham, Mullarkey became a key figure at the heart of the defence, making more than 130 appearances in all competitions and helping the Robins consolidate their place in the National League. His consistent performances earned him a move back into the EFL with Rochdale in January 2023.

After making 12 appearances for Dale during the second half of the 2022/23 campaign, Mullarkey joined Grimsby Town...

His performances earned him a move to League One side Crawley Town in the summer of 2024...

Head Coach, Rob Elliot said 'With the injuries we’ve had, Toby’s physicality gives us an important presence in the group, but it’s his understanding of the game and his ability to take on information quickly that will help him adapt. He’s shown a great willingness to learn and has settled in well. He’s a great person, and we want people here who are fully invested, who want to be part of the group and are committed to what we’re building'".

Footnote: Cumbria is become a popular destination for ex-Altrincham players with Carlisle the base for Linney and Mullarkey whilst Barrow have signed Crankshaw and Marriott.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports:

Friendlies : JUSTIN AMALUZOR started for Grimsby Town, who beat visitors Lincoln City 5-1 and scored the third goal.

LEWIS BAINES (left) and ELLIOT NEWBY both played the full game for Morecambe, who entertained CRAIG MAHON'S AFC Fylde, for whom CHRIS MERRIE played the first 70 minutes of a 1-1 draw.

Scunthorpe United won 3-6 at North Ferriby. DECLAN HOWE played the first half, and ROSS BARROWS the second.

DANNY CASHMAN was a 61st minute substitute for Crawley Town at Oxford United, coming on with the game level at 1-1. The hosts went on to win 3-1. OWEN DALE was released by them this summer, and is currently a free agent after turning down a contract offer from Plymouth Argyle where he spent last season on loan.

Like Altrincham, Wealdstone are quoted by many bookmakers as 250-1 to win this season's National League, but they made it 3 wins from 5 pre-season games, scoring the only goal against visitors AFC Wimbledon after just 4 minutes. ALI SMITH was withdrawn by the Dons at the interval.

Salford City will be hoping that Macaulay Langstaff recaptures his form after two frustrating seasons at Millwall, and he scored both goals in their 0-2 win at Carlisle United. REGAN LINNEY and TOBY MULLARKEY both started for the hosts, Regan being withdrawn after 66 minutes and Toby after 75.

TYLOR GOLDEN started for Boreham Wood at Dagenham and Redbridge, and played the full game. He had the ball in the net late on, but the effort was disallowed. Wood won 1-2.

DAN SASSI (right) watched from the Newport County bench as visitors Reading hit 4 unanswered goals.

Peterborough United scored the only first half goal at York City, and ALEX NEWBY equalised for the hosts after 52 minutes as he put in a full shift. However the visitors brought on CHRIS CONN-CLARKE 8 minutes later, and went on to win 1-2. The Minstermen were without JEFF KING.

JACK KINGDON was a 68th minute substitute for Yeovil Town in their 1-1 draw at Farnham Town, but MATT GOULD wasn't involved.

KEVIN BERKOE was a 61st minute substitute for Shrewsbury Town at Edgar Street, as they came from behind to hold Hereford 1-1.

PHIL PARKINSON took his Chester side to his old stamping ground at the Weaver Stadium to take on Nantwich Town. Both TOM PEERS and BILLY WATERS started for the Seals, and Tom scored their second goal before being replaced at the break. Billy also came off at the hour mark, soon after having a goal chalked off for offside. The Dabbers included ADY ROXBURGH, but finally lost 0-3. BYRON HARRISON wasn't in their squad.

Macclesfield were trailing at Tamworth in the 65th minute, and brought on all 9 of their substitutes, including ELLIOTT OSBORNE, GEORGE WILSON, and SAM HEATHCOTE. They eventually earned a 1-1 draw.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

News of two signings from his former club by manager John McGrath comes from FC Halifax Town, First up is "defender Max Bardell, following his departure from Buxton.

Having spent time in the youth setups at Huddersfield Town and Manchester City, the defender made the move to Derby County in 2019. Initially signing on a scholarship deal, Bardell signed his first professional contract with the club in the summer of 2021... Bardell signed an extension in January 2023.

In October 2024, the defender joined AFC Fylde in the National League on a one-month loan. This was extended through until January, and then extended again through to the end of the season. Bardell made 27 appearances for Fylde...

In the summer of 2025, Bardell was released by Derby and was picked up by John McGrath for Buxton. Bardell made 40 league appearances last season... and the defender was named players' player of the season".

Also arriving at The Shay is another defender "Will Flint, from League One side Doncaster Rovers.

A product of the Doncaster Rovers academy, Flint signed his first professional contract with the club in the summer of 2025. Flint got his first taste of men’s football on loan at Gainsborough Trinity in 2023. His next move was to Darlington on loan in August 2024, making 39 appearances in the National League North...

Last season, Flint initially joined Gateshead on loan, making 21 appearances in the National League. The defender was recalled by Doncaster in February due to a concern over playing time, before being sent on loan to Buxton".

Harrogate Town "confirm Reece Smith has joined League Two side Walsall for an undisclosed fee.

Reece signed from Maidenhead ahead of the 2025/26 season and would be an almost ever-present in Simon Weaver’s side for the entire season, making a total of 52 appearances.

Reece departs having also made a big impression off the pitch, being named PFA Community Champion for his work with our Foundation in and around the local community".

Worthing "announce the signing of teenage starlet Ramell Carter on a loan deal from Premier League side Hull City until January 2027...

The 18-year-old takes Adam Hinshelwood’s side signings to double figures for the summer, with the attack-minded creator able to play in various positions across the front three.

Ramell rose to stardom as a 11-year-old whilst on the books at Tottenham Hotspur’s academy, with a series of viral videos...

He then transitioned from north London to East Yorkshire in 2024 in a move to Hull City... Carter signed his first professional contract with the Tigers in February 2026....

Worthing is Carter’s first foray into senior football...

His new manager, Adam Hinshelwood, [said]... 'Ramell is a player with huge potential, a left-footed attack-minded player who has great balance, delivery and can play anywhere across the front line... Alongside Cory [see beloe], we have brought in two very promising young players who we are delighted to have join us'".

In addition the BBC confirms that "Worthing have agreed a loan deal with Queens Park Rangers for teenage full-back Cory Adjetey-Brew.

The defender, who started his career at Arsenal's academy before being released in 2024, has experience of senior football after a spell with Isthmian League Premier Division side Welling United".

And "Worthing have re-signed midfielder Ricky Aguiar following his departure from National League side York City.

The 25-year-old academy graduate returns to Woodside Road for a third spell after spending the second half of last season on loan at Horsham and Eastleigh.

Aguiar made 130 appearances during his previous spells with the Rebels, scoring 28 goals, and impressed during a loan return in the first half of the 2023-24 campaign...

Manager Adam Hinshelwood told the club website 'He is a player with immense quality in possession and can score goals from a wide range of positions, just like he did for us in his loan spell a few years ago....

And Worthing FC have signed midfielder Jack Wadham on a permanent deal as he returns to the club for a third spell.

The 23-year-old has been training with the Rebels this summer... Wadham arrived on loan from AFC Bournemouth in January 2024 during Worthing boss Adam Hinshelwood's second stint in charge, making one appearance.

He then signed for National League Sutton United in summer 2024 making 25 appearances, before a second loan spell with Worthing, making six appearances.

Last season's National League champions have suffered a blow as Tranmere Rovers "announce the signing of goalkeeper Harrison Male on a one-year contract.

Male, 25, won promotion last season to League Two with York City, who finished the campaign as National League champions. His 19 clean sheets earned him the National League Golden Glove award for 2025/26, the second season in a row he won the trophy.

After more than a decade in the Leeds United academy, he gained valuable senior experience in two years at Worthing and a year at Dorking Wanderers, prior to joining York in 2024".

28 July 2026

TRANMERE ROVERS XI 1-3 ALTRINCHAM

Behind closed doors Altrincham secured a first win of the pre-season period at Tranmere Rovers who deployed "a mix of first-team players and students from the Education Hub feature in a 3-1 defeatS.

The visitors’ starting XI included Kristian Dennis and Sam Taylor, who left the Club at the end of last season.

Altrincham took an early lead in the fifth minute with Sam Barnes finishing at close range from a corner kick.

Four minutes later, Rovers equalised...

In the 16th minute, Alty retook the lead with their captain, Tom Crawford, scoring with a header inside the box.

Five minutes later, Aidan Barlow - who joined the Robins from Rochdale this summer - fired into the top-right corner from the right of the penalty area...

After the break, there were a number of changes and chances, but it would finish 1-3 as both sets of players gained some important minutes".

Tranmere's line-up reportedly contained only one regular first-team player.

Starting XI: Trialist, James Plant, Bobby Faulkner, Jack McEvilly, Olly Scott, Lewis Warrington, Josh Williams, Charlie Veevers, Trialist, Trialist, Sam Mann

TODAY: BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

In his post-match interview on Saturday, Alty boss Neil Gibson [right] confirmed that Altrincham would be facing a Tranmere Rovers side today (Tuesday) behind closed doors, though he gave no details of kick-off time, location or the strength of the opposition.

It has since emerged that the game will be held at Tranmere Rovers' training ground.

However, it remains to be seen whether details emerge of its outcome.

The next and final pre-season game in the presence of spectators is a clash on Friday night (7pm) when Alty entertain Manchester United under-21s.

NL MEASURES AGAINST TIMEWASTING

The BBC reports that "English football will implement a trial to try to eradicate the goalkeeper tactical timeout this season.

The Football Association, Premier League, English Football League, National League and Women's Super League have agreed on the measure, with permission granted by the International Football Association Board (Ifab).

Pro Ref, led by chief refereeing officer Howard Webb, had been in discussions with the leagues to determine how to tackle the issue. It settled on a team having to remove an outfield player from the pitch.

If a referee signals that the physio can come on to treat a goalkeeper, that team's coach will have 10 seconds to nominate another player to leave the pitch for one minute after play has restarted, telling the fourth official of their choice.

If no player has been selected within 10 seconds, the captain must leave the field.

The first game to feature the trial will be the Carabao Cup preliminary round tie between Tranmere and Rochdale on Saturday...

Officials will not prevent players from visiting the touchline as an injury is treated but it is hoped the prospect of playing with 10 players for a minute will act as an adequate disincentive...

There are a few exemptions when a team-mate will not have to go off...

[These include]

Where a goalkeeper says they do not need the physio and they have not caused play to stop
The goalkeeper and an outfield player have collided
If a goalkeeper is fouled and needs immediate treatment
If a goalkeeper is bleeding
If there is a serious injury (has to be substituted) or concussion.
If the goalkeeper is substituted, the substitution is not delayed.

The results of the trials will be assessed by Ifab at its meetings throughout the seasons, and this could lead to a permanent law change globally from 2027-28".

OPPOSITION VIEW OF ALTY

Sutton United is previewing its 2026-27 opponents.

Right: Aidan Barlow is one of Alty's summer signings. He scored against Macclesfield FC in last Saturday's friendly.

So far as Altrincham is concerned it first records it states that "Altrincham will be looking to progress next term under Neil Gibson, who embarks on his first full campaign with the Robins... The Welshman turned the tide following a disappointing start to the 2025/26 campaign and led them from three wins from their opening 15 games to as many wins from his first four games in charge...

Looking forward though, the Robins will be eyeing up a place in the top half once more and have been hard at work in building a squad capable of reaching the play-offs once more, with the bulk of their squad remaining at the J Davidson Stadium.

This consistency will bode well for Gibson’s side; only Lewis Baines, Ollie Crankshaw, Isaac Marriott, Tylor Golden, Luke Hutchinson, Ethan Ross, Lucas Edwards, Sam Reed, Billy Sass-Davies and Yassine Touré have exited Greater Manchester this summer, and while this includes a handful of key players, the blow will have been softened by the arrivals of Rochdale AFC duo Aidan Barlow and Liam Humbles fresh off winning promotion last season, along with Barnet goalkeeper Owen Evans...

Tranmere Rovers duo Sam Taylor and Kristian Dennis have added increased EFL experience to their ranks along with former Notts County midfielder Jack Hinchy, and crucially adds to a Robins side who have retained the likes of Jimmy Knowles, Tom Crawford, Charlie Kirk, Kahrel Reddin, Matty Kosylo, Lucas Weaver and Jake Cooper, a group of players who appeared at least 30 times last season, ensuring they have a wealth of expertise and quality in their attempt to push up the division".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Altrincham were not the only National League side to ship five goals at home on Saturday.

Forest Green Rovers lost 1-5 but in their case the opposition was an EFL club, Cardiff City.

"The Bluebirds overcame Robbie Savage’s side in FGR’s second home pre-season fixture, showing their quality with a dominant performance.

Chris Willock demonstrated his class from the outset, completing an impressive hat-trick within just 36 minutes.

Isaak Davies opened the scoring early on, before Yousef Salech added to the tally with a powerful low strike.

Kyle Kelly managed to pull one back on his debut, finding the top corner with a deflected second-half effort to round off the scoring".

Hartlepool United "confirm the signing of goalkeeper Nathan Fisher following the expiry of his contract with Middlesbrough...

The 21-year-old has signed a one-year contract at Victoria Park until June 2027, with the Club holding an option to extend the agreement by a further year through to June 2028.

Fisher earned his move to Pools after impressing Lee Clark and his coaching staff throughout pre-season, having trained with the squad in recent weeks.

The Newcastle-born goalkeeper arrives at Victoria Park after spending the last five years within Middlesbrough’s Category One Academy...

Standing at 6ft 3in, Fisher is a commanding goalkeeper who is comfortable coming for crosses, confident with the ball at his feet and capable of playing an important role in building attacks from the back"...

Fisher becomes the latest addition to Lee Clark’s squad ahead of the 2026/27 season, joining fellow new arrivals Max Merrick, Cameron John, Jordan Hugill, Jack Nolan, Owen Hampson, Chris Popov, Will Harris, Charlie Penman, Brooklyn Ilunga, Corey McKeown, Terry Bondo and Neo Eccleston at Victoria Park".

The Daily Star reports that "Jermain Defoe has hit back at Woking director of football Jody Brown and threatened legal action after leaving as manager...

Defoe issued a parting comment that it was 'impossible to continue' with the Cards, which has since sparked a response from the Woking hierarchy. Brown came out, defending the club's decision and transfer strategy in the wake of Defoe's exit. However, the chief's statement online has prompted Defoe to explore legal avenues.

Brown accused Defoe of failing to attend a meeting with the directors, operations chief and management team. In response to the statement, Surrey Live reached out to the former striker's representatives. They said 'he statement issued by Jody Brown is highly detrimental to Jermain's reputation, and amounts to a serious defamation of character.

'The statement also suggests that Jermain was making unreasonable demands, which is simply untrue. Jermain is therefore taking immediate legal advice and intends to pursue appropriate legal action in relation to the statements made'...

Brown released a statement published on the official Woking website which said.. 'In recent weeks there had been feedback from across the club, including players, staff and other departments, regarding growing concerns. To better understand the situation, I asked Jermain and Paul for a brief report outlining the squad's current depth, recruitment targets and any operational challenges, so we could provide the support required and accelerate preparations for the season.

'That report was requested on more than one occasion but was never received. A meeting was subsequently scheduled involving the directors, manager, assistant manager and Head of Operations to review preparations for the season. Neither Jermain nor his assistant attended that meeting or that day's training session.

'Throughout his tenure, Jermain had never communicated any serious concerns directly to me, so I am not going to speculate on his reasons'".

27 July 2026

PETER HIGHAM R.I.P.

Terry Rowley advises us of the sad news that Peter Higham, Altrincham's oldest player, passed away on July 3rd. he was 95 years old.

As Terry explains in his Playing Legends series, Peter played for Alty in 1964/65, recruited by Freddie Pye who had been appointed manager early in 1964.

"Peter was brought in to replace the mercurial Harvey McCreadie up front, as Pye had lost patience with his ‘wayward son’. Peter made his debut in a 1-0 win at Chester on the 20th February with his scoring debut coming against Sankeys in a 4-2 win at Moss lane on the 20th March. He ended the season with two goals against Bangor City and, on the final day, scored again in a 2-0 win over Witton Albion.

Strangely, but as was Freddie Pye’s way, Peter was allowed to leave and he then joined Cheshire League rivals, Buxton, where he scored 33 goals in 44 games during 1965/66. Still, one assumes that the thinking was that Altrincham had Jack Swindells? Ironically, Peter was earning more by playing part-time and working, than he could by playing as a full time professional! Peter was to score goals wherever he played...

After working at the Park Lane Hospital Prison for the criminally insane as a lecturer of physical education, Peter went on to teach handicapped people in a Southport day centre on a part-time basis and he finally retired to live in Southport"

ALTY OLD BOYS

TOM WALKER has joined Hyde. Phil Jordan explains that "He played twice for Altrincham in 2021 at which point he was a Stockport County player. He'd been at Fylde in 2020, and went back there in 2022". His new manager is former Altrincham chief scout, MICHAEL CLEGG.

MANAGER No.33 DEPARTS

In the 14 months since Neil Gibson resigned at Wealdstone in May 2025, there have now been 33 managerial departures from clubs which either have already competed in the National League during 2026, or will do so from 8 August 2026.

The latest departure comes at York City as Bet 365 confirms.

"York City manager Stuart Maynard has departed the club just months after winning the National League title.

After leaving Notts County at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, Maynard joined York City at the start of least season and was an instant hit with players and fans.

The Minstermen netted a dramatic goal in the 13th minute of stoppage time away at National League title rivals Rochdale to clinch an incredible promotion to League Two on the final day of the regular season.

York have already made a number of summer signings, and kept hold of key striker Josh Stones, as they aim to clinch back-to-back promotions but will now have to take stock and decide who will be at the helm.

In a post on the club's official X account, York City said 'Stuart Maynard will be leaving his role as First Team Manager, with immediate effect.

'This has not been an easy decision, and it is not one the board has taken lightly. Ultimately, it comes down to a difference in direction and vision for the football club.

'We recognise that, from the outside, this may look like a strange or difficult decision to understand. But we believe that in the long term, the football club will be in a stronger position because of it, another step towards the vision we, as custodians of this club, believe will deliver sustained success.'"

Footnote: Both clubs promoted from the National League in 2026, (York City and Rochdale), have now parted company with the manager who secured their promotion. Back in June, Rochdale parted company with Jimmy McNulty who left to join Stockport County.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Hartlepool United "confirm the signing of goalkeeper Max Merrick on a season-long loan from Chelsea...

The 20-year-old England Under-20 international arrives at Victoria Park after progressing through Chelsea’s renowned Academy to establish himself as a regular member of the club’s Under-21 side...

His performances have also seen him become part of Chelsea’s senior environment, earning places in UEFA Champions League matchday squads and being named on the bench during the club’s successful UEFA Conference League campaign.

Earlier this year, Merrick signed a new long-term contract with Chelsea until the summer of 2028.

The goalkeeper has also gained valuable senior experience through loan spells with Hanwell Town and National League South side Hampton & Richmond Borough... Merrick is an England youth international...

Merrick said 'I’ve been at Chelsea since I was 12 and it’s been an incredible place to develop'"...

He joins fellow summer arrivals Jordan Hugill, Jack Nolan, Owen Hampson, Chris Popov, Will Harris, Charlie Penman, Brooklyn Ilunga, Corey McKeown, Terry Bondo, Neo Eccleston, Liam Gibson and Cameron John at Victoria Park ahead of the new season".

At Tamworth "Manager Andy Peaks and skipper Ben Milnes agree it’s now time to focus on fine tuning the new-look squad ready for the big National League kick-off in less than three weeks time.

The Lambs' boss has so far used pre-season to concentrate on fitness levels, increasing the players' game time, experimenting with his line-ups and he's pleased with the progress...

Peaks said... 'We are going to have a really fit team... We’ve got two in each position so I’m hoping the standard continues to improve as the players show me who wants to play that first game'.

The Lambs have played five pre-season games so far, winning three against Walton & Hersham, Lichfield City and Stoke City under 21s.

Skipper Ben Milnes likes what he’s seen so far, saying... 'We’ve obviously got quite a new squad compared to recent years.'".

Solihull Moors "announce the signing of defender Tyrell Warren ahead of the 2026/27 National League season...

The 27-year-old arrives at Damson Park following his departure from Grimsby Town...

A product of Manchester United's Academy, Warren began his senior career with Salford City, gaining valuable experience during loan spells with Radcliffe, Boston United and later FC Halifax Town, before securing a move to Barrow in 2022.

After two seasons in League Two with Barrow, Warren joined Grimsby Town ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, where he made over 50 appearances...

Chris Millington added 'Tyrell is a very effective defender who also has the ability to create and support attacks. As a person, he has a professional, no-nonsense way about him which will be a great value across the course of the season'".

They may be managerless but Woking "announce the signing of defender Shadrach Ogie on a two-year deal following the expiry of his contract at Gillingham.

The 24-year-old arrives at the Laithwaite Community Stadium with a wealth of EFL experience and the versatility to operate both at centre-back and full-back. Left-footed, athletic, and composed in possession, Ogie adds quality and balance to the Cardinals’ defensive options.

Ogie began his footballing journey with Hornchurch before joining Leyton Orient’s Academy in 2018. He... went on to spend four seasons with the East London club, playing his part in their League Two title-winning campaign during the 2022/23 season.

Following promotion with Leyton Orient, Ogie joined fellow League Two side Gillingham on a permanent transfer in July 2023. Over the next two seasons, he established himself as a reliable and versatile defensive option, making 39 appearances for the Gills...

Ogie said 'From my conversations with the club, it was clear there was a real ambition about what everyone is working towards'..

Director of Football Jody Brown said... 'Jermain [Defoe] played a big part in identifying and attracting the player to the club before his departure. His ability to play as a left-sided centre-back or at full-back gives us excellent balance, while his athleticism and quality in possession will be important attributes for us throughout the season'".

26 July 2026

ALTRINCHAM 2-5 MACCLESFIELD FC

Right: A new-look Lucas Weaver was on the mark for Altrincham against Macclesfield FC on Saturday.

It was an embarrassing afternoon for Altrincham as they were heavily beaten by their historical Cheshire rivals at the J. Davidson Stadium.

Match report here.

POST-MATCH VIEW OF NEIL GIBSON

Tom Jolley's post-match interview with manager Neil Gibson after the 2-5 defeat by Macclesfield Town is on the Altrincham FC website.

He felt that whereas Macclesfield rightly treated the game as a competitive match, his own players were seemingly in a less intense "friendly" mode.

He admitted that players were short of game time given the disruptions to the pre-season fixture schedule.

Training next week will concentrate on rectifying the "passive" performance against the Silkmen and on "out of possession" aspects of the game. Neil was also upset that two more goals were conceded on Saturday from dead ball situations just as they were at Colwyn Bay.

Neil also clarified a couple of issues not previously explained; next Tuesday's friendly behind closed doors will be against a Tranmere Rovers team and the reason for cancelling the pre-season match at Vauxhall Motors was due to the injuries picked up in the preceding abandoned game at Wythenshawe Town.

NEXT: MANCHESTER UNITED U21

Although Altrincham are playing a "behind closed doors" friendly on Tuesday, 28 July, their only remaining public fixture is on Friday, 31 July at home to Manchester United's under-21 side. Kick-off is at 7pm.

That will mean that, this summer, Altrincham will have completed just four pre-season matches of 90 minutes in front of their home or travelling supporters, the lowest such total in the current millennium. A planned sixth friendly, away at Wythenshawe Town was abandoned before half-time.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports...

Scottish League Cup : Having been booked in the first half, KIAN TAYLOR was withdrawn by Airdrie in the 80th minute, by which time they'd been comfortably beaten 0-3 by visitors Ross County.

Kilmarnock had to settle for a goalless draw at Peterhead. JOE HUGILL converted the first penalty in the shootout, but Roshaun Mathurin missed the last and they lost 5-4.

It was a similar tale of woe for Livingston at Stenhousemuir. They'd already missed a penalty in normal time - and missed another 3 in the shootout. TYRESE SINCLAIR played the full match, but didn't take a spot kick.

While Kilmarnock won their group and will progress to the knockout stage, both Livingston and Airdrie were eliminated.

South Korea K League 2 : MARCUS DACKERS (right) only came off the Daegu bench in the 85th minute. They were 0-2 down to visitors Suwon FC, but reduced the arrears with a penalty in added time. The result allowed Suwon to leapfrog Daegu into 3rd spot.

Friendlies : CRAIG MAHON'S AFC Fylde entertained Wigan Athletic, and CHRIS MERRIE played the first 77 minutes against the club where he started his career. Unfortunately, a serious injury to a Wigan player led to the match being abandoned shortly afterwards with the Coasters 0-3 down.

ALI SMITH was left on the AFC Wimbledon bench as they beat visitors Charlton Athletic 2-0.

Barrow won 2-0 at home against Blackpool. OLLIE CRANKSHAW was withdrawn after 57 minutes, and ISAAC MARRIOTT (left) after 80. KENNEDY DIGIE was a 72nd minute substitute.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM was again not involved, as Eastleigh lost by the only goal to visitors Crawley Town. One wonders if he's picked up an injury. DANNY CASHMAN played the second half for Crawley.

Forest Green Rovers found themselves 5 goals down by the 36th minute to visitors Cardiff City, but they "won" the second half, reducing the final score to 1-5. That ETHAN ROSS wasn't involved again suggests that he's still not fully recovered from his injury.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR struck twice as Grimsby Town eased home 0-3 at Hartlepool United.

Although KEVIN BERKOE put in a full shift, Shrewsbury Town went down 1-4 at home to West Bromwich Albion.

CARL PIERGIANNI played the first half as Stevenage beat visitors Millwall 1-0.

And, finally, in the USL League One, SAM ROSCOE played the full game for Corpus Christi against Greenville, one goal being sufficient to see off their visitors from South Carolina and move them up to 10th of 17, their highest placing of the season so far, although they are 5 points behind Fort Wayne in 9th place.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Carlisle United "announce the signing of Leo Duru on a one-year deal with an option of another year.

Duru, 21, joins following a successful trial period with the club...

The Manchester-born right-sided defender started off with Manchester United before joining Blackburn Rovers at the age of ten. He made his senior debut for Rovers in August 2024, featuring in a 6-1 EFL Cup victory over Stockport County.

A move to Barrow was next for Duru as he gained crucial experience playing eight times for the Bluebirds...

Loan spells in the United States with MLS side San Diego FC and USL Championship club Birmingham Legion followed... Duru has also represented the United States' under-20 team through his Philadelphia-born mother on three occasions.

Rob Elliot, Head Coach, said 'He has high energy, a good one-on-one defender and also creates a real attacking threat'...

Marc Tierney, Sporting Director, added... 'He is a player we have tracked since last season, and he has excelled throughout pre-season, showcasing his pace, athleticism and commitment'".

25 July 2026

ALTRINCHAM 2-5 MACCLESFIELD FC

It was an embarrassing afternoon for Altrincham as they were heavily beaten by their historical Cheshire rivals at the J. Davidson Stadium. Alty fielded their starting eleven for the first 72 minutes at which point ten substiutes were introduced with the score already 2-5.

Right: Summer signing Sam Taylor (left) with centre-back Charlie Olson, who signed late last season.

As the clock ticked over into just the third minute after kick-off, Macc took the lead when they were allowed to advance to the left bye-line before the resulting lay-off was converted from close range by Duffy. Barely a minute later Alty levelled when Jimmy Knowles chased a seemingly lost cause but managed to get past a defender on the right bye-line and feed Barlow for a straightforward drive into the net.

Then a slick move up the middle, starting with keeper Evans, culminated in Weaver putting Altrincham ahead in just the seventh minute.

The Silkmen levelled in the 26th minute from a deft header by Elliot Osborne from a freekick taken near to the right corner flag, following a foul by Olson.

Another ex-Alty man, George Wilson then put Macc ahead, netting with a firm shot after his initial effort had rebounded to him.

Macc made it 4-2 on 55 minutes when Evans could only palm away a shot to an opponent, who netted.

The visitors went 2-5 up when a penalty was awarded against either Kosylo or Olson for a foul and George netted from the spot comfortably (62 mins).

Macc then took their foot off the gas and whilst Alty's mass substitutions meant that the hosts enjoyed more forward momentum, they were unable to narrow the margin of defeat, though Breckin did graze the crossbar with a shot from left of goal.

So Alty remain winless over the pre-season period ahead of a closed-door fixture in midweek and a Friday night date with the Manchester United under-21s on Friday evening.

Match report here.

TODAY: MACCLESFIELD FC

Altrincham entertain Cheshire neighbours Macclesfield FC today (Saturday, 3pm) in the Robins' first home friendly of the summer.

Macclesfield FC confirm that "Segregation will be in place for our trip to the J.Davidson Stadium, so it is important that Silkmen supporters purchase the correct class of tickets, as [otherwise] they will be refused entry to the stadium.

There will now be a pay on the turnstile option for away supporters, with ticket prices remaining the same on match day".

Ticket prices are as follows:

18 and Over – £10
17 and Under – £5

All under 14s must be accompanied by a paying adult".

Altrincham FC has reminded its supporters that "season tickets are not valid for pre-season friendlies at The J.Davidson Stadium".

The Silkmen's manager John Rooney has a pre-match interview on the Macclesfield YouTube account.

OWEN EVANS INTERVIEW

Altrincham FC reports that "New goalie Owen Evans [pictured, right] sits down with Alty TV's Tom Jolley to discuss his move to The J.Davidson Stadium and how pre-season's been going so far".

In his video interview, Alty's keeper said that he has "really enjoyed" his time at the club so far. As for pre-season, although he stated that the Altrincham keepers have been spared some of the running challenges demanded of the outfield players in pre-season, Owen has, nevertheless, been working hard doing work which has included "tough circuits in the gym".

He said that when he was approached to sign for Altrincham, manager Neil Gibson revealed that he had been following Owen's career since the keeper's early days of his career when he was playing for Rhyl and that such long-term interest had been a factor in his joining Alty.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports firstly on Welsh Football which kicks off next Friday. One can imagine that Bala Town will be a little miffed at being relegated to Cymru North when the Premier Division has been extended from 12 clubs to 16. The newcomers are Airbus, Ammanford, Cambrian United (from Clydach Vale in the Rhondda Valley), Holywell, Llandudno, and Trefelin.

Bala's squad still includes JOEL TORRANCE, and is surprisingly cosmopolitan for a club at such a low level. Defender Nelson Digbeu is French, the midfield includes Taner Dogan (USA), Ola Ibrahim (Ireland), and Lassana Mendes (Guinea-Bissau), while up front they can boast a Scot in Cameron Ferguson and an Australian in Jacob Tarasenko. Joel is one of 10 Englishmen - one more than the number of Welsh players.

On the other side of the world a league which is very much in progress is Australia's NPL Victoria, in which Oakleigh Cannons' 16 match unbeaten run was ended when they lost 1-2 at home to South Melbourne.

However, with nearest challengers Hume City also losing, CONNOR HAMPSON and his colleagues remain 7 points clear with 4 games remaining.

Friendly: Manchester United continued their Scandinavian pre-season tour with a visit to Trondheim to face Norwegian mid-table side Rosenborg.

They went into a 4-goal lead in the 72nd minute, at which point DERMOT MEE (above, left) was given a rare opportunity between the sticks. However, such was United's dominance in winning 0-5 that he had only one routine save to make.

York City have been enjoying a training break in Spain, and they held Saudi Arabian mid-table side Al-Ettifaq to a 2-2 draw. The details are sketchy, but JEFF KING wasn't involved, while ALEX NEWBY started on the bench.

Hyde United started with captain WILL HALL (right), and DONTAI GABIDON as they entertained PHIL PARKINSON'S Chester. Will was withdrawn at the break with the Tigers a goal down (it proved to be the only goal of the game), and Dontai also came off after 72 minutes.

There were no Old Boys in Chester's opening lineup, but TOM PEERS came on for the second half.

LUKE BURGESS and REGAN GRIFFITHS started for Southport, and it was Luke who scored to round off a 2-0 victory over visitors FC United, for whom GEZ SITHOLE was a 67th minute substitute.

Irish Premier Division : Trailing at half time to visitors Dundalk, St.Patrick's equalised in the 57th minute and immediately made a double substitution with BARRY BAGGLEY one of the withdrawals. The game ended 1-1. St.Patricks remain 2nd in the table, 7 points behind Shamrock Rovers with 11 matches remaining.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Following yesterday's surprise news from Woking, the BBC reports that "Former England striker Jermain Defoe has described his first managerial job as an "eye-opening experience" following his exit from National League side Woking after just four months... 'Unfortunately, circumstances have ultimately made it impossible for me to continue in the position,' Defoe said in an Instagram post. 'I am extremely proud of the work undertaken during my time at the club and genuinely felt that we were building something special.

'My time at Woking FC has been an eye-opening managerial experience and one that will undoubtedly make me stronger'".

Robin Grey, BBC Surrey and Sussex sports editor adds that "This is a hugely surprising end to a partnership that seemed to be heading in the right direction...

But the reference in Defoe's statement to owner Todd Johnson, thanking him 'for giving me the opportunity to manage the club', but a lack of one for [Director of Football, Jody] Brown could reveal a lot about the departure...

So all eyes point towards off the pitch for the reasons he said made it 'impossible' to continue after 116 days in charge."

The Mirror observed that "director of football, Jody Brown, has defended himself after being criticised on X... alleging that Defoe 'led all recruitment and all triallists'. He claimed, 'Of the vast number of triallists, I did not choose one. Not one.

'Jermain led all recruitment and all triallists. All Jermain’s contacts, all linked to him. Every single one. Empty promises? We gave everything that was asked. Everything. I’m sure it’ll all come out in due course.'"

Boreham Wood confirm that forward Junior Dixon has joined Walton & Hersham FC on a permanent transfer.

Junior initially arrived at Meadow Park on a season-long loan from Birmingham City during the 2024/25 season, playing his part as the Wood secured promotion back to the National League.

Following that successful campaign, he made the move permanent in July 2025. During his time at the club, he also gained valuable experience out on loan, spending spells with Hampton & Richmond Borough and Chatham Town during the 2025/26 season.

Everyone at Boreham Wood FC would like to thank Junior for his efforts during his time at the club and wish him every success for the future as he begins the next chapter of his career with newly promoted National League South side Walton & Hersham FC".

At Hartlepool United "Cameron John has expressed his excitement at returning to the Club after sealing a permanent move on Friday.

The 26-year-old has joined on a permanent deal, after making 40 appearances for Pools last season in a loan spell from York City...

'It’s really good to be back,' he said...

John became a key part of last season’s squad, and he... 'Last season was really good. I wasn’t shy about it; I really enjoyed my time here.

'Being on loan is something that I’ve chose[n] a lot in my career, but it’s just good to be back here permanently'...

The defender has Football League and National League experience with Doncaster, Rochdale and York City... The 26-year-old added... 'We’ve got a good, young group this year – and it’s just about giving my experiences, and helping them along the journey'".

Forest Green Rovers "confirm Laurent Mendy has signed for Scottish Premiership Team, Heart of Midlothian FC.

He joins Hearts, who came so close to winning the league last season, for what will be, if all targets are met, a club record fee of close to £1million.

Laurent joined us from Macclesfield in 2025, following in the footsteps of his former manager, Robbie Savage.

He was nearly an ever-present last season, making 47 appearances for the club...

Robbie Savage said this about his captain, 'It's an unbelievable opportunity for Mendy. I could not stand in his way of progressing his career and bettering his and his family's life, whilst getting a record fee received for the club'".

Harrogate Town "announce the signing of talented defender Archie Baptiste on a permanent deal.

The 20-year-old signs for an undisclosed fee from Middlesbrough on a two-year-contract.

'With Chanse departing we are getting another defender with high potential', explained Head of Player Recruitment, Lloyd Kerry.

'We think there's a lot about his game where he can adapt quickly to men's football, he communicates well, he's aggressive, and he's comfortable on the ball.”

'He suits our system in that right centre back role or the middle of a back three'...

Archie started his career at Chelsea before moving to North London and Tottenham Hotspur, eventually signing for Middlesbrough in 2025... before achieving promotion to The Football League during a short loan spell at Rochdale">

24 July 2026

THE ALTRINCHAM SQUAD

As the 2026-27 season approaches in a fortnight's time, the Altrincham squad comprises 25 players.

Six new signings have been made this summer (Barlow, Dennis, Evans, Hinchy, Humbles and Taylor) but two of those six (Hinchy and Humbles) were previously at the club as loanees.

Two other players, Olson and Breckin who were signed towards the end of last season, did not make a start for Altrincham in 2025/26.

Seven of the squad have yet to make a start for Altrincham in a competitive match, whilst a further seven players have started fewer than ten games in all competitions.

So, as we head towards 2026-27 season, just eleven players have made 10 or more starts for Altrincham in all competitions...

136 starts: Eddy Jones (pictured, right)
125 starts: Matty Kosylo
112 starts: Lewis Banks
114 starts: Jake Cooper
94 starts: Tom Crawford
46 starts: Kahrel Reddin
38 starts: Jimmy Knowles
25 starts: Charlie Olson
22 starts: Liam Humbles
18 starts: Charlie Kirk
15 starts: Lucas Weaver

NEXT: MACCLESFIELD FC

Macclesfield FC arrive to face Altrincham on Saturday following a 2-2 midweek draw at Warrington Town in their most recent pre-season game.

Macclesfield FC "continued their unbeaten run in pre-season on the road at Warrington Town on Tuesday evening, with first half Macc goals from Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and a trialist.

John Rooney rotated his squad for the midweek fixture with only Christian Dibble retaining his starting place from Saturday’s win against Wolves at the Leasing.com Stadium. Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, Paul Dawson, Theo Chapman, Luis Lacey and Carlos Dos Santos came back in to the fold from the off alongside five trialists...

The hosts continued to have the lion's share of the chances in the opening stages...

It was somewhat against the run of play in fact that the Silkmen then took the lead on the half hour mark with their first real effort in anger on goal as Cameron Borthwick-Jackson nodded home Luis Lacey’s in-swung corner from close range...

Scanlon then levelled for the Yellows three minutes before the interval...

The Silkmen’s lead was almost immediately reinstated though as trialist wearing 18 capitalised...

Macc retaking the lead proved to be the last action of the half...

Two changes were made at the break with goalscorer Cameron Borthwick-Jackson and Christian Dibble replaced by SAM HEATHCOTE and a trialist goalkeeper...

Rooney opted to make nine changes on the hour mark which saw the departure of Carlos Dos Santos, Luis Lacey, Theo Chapman, Paul Dawson and five trialists, in turn introducing Luke Duffy, Fin Shrimpton, Tom Wilson, Lincoln McFayden, ELLIOT OSBORNE (above, left), Jon Ustabasi, Ammar Dyer and trialist wearing nine.

It wasn’t long after the changes were rung that Warrington found an equaliser...

Elliot Osborne had Macc’s best chance to re-take the lead late on, driving forward through the heart of the Warrington midfield before blazing over from distance".

DEFOE BECOMES 32ND DEPARTURE IN 14 MONTHS

In a short statement on Thursday 23 July, it was announced that Woking "Football Club can confirm that the club and First Team Manager Jermain Defoe have mutually agreed to part ways with immediate effect.

We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Jermain for his contribution during his time at Woking Football Club, and we wish him every success in the future.

The club remains fully focused on delivering its objectives both on and off the pitch. We would like to thank our supporters for their continued support".

Footnote: Defoe was appointed on 29 March, his first match as manager being a 1-1 draw at home to Altrincham. In all he managed seven league games, five of which were at home and lost just once, the final game of last season.

He becomes the SEVENTH manager to leave a National League club during the 2026 close season.

In all, there have now been THIRTY-TWO managerial departures from clubs who have or will have played in the National League during the calendar year 2026.

The 32 departures comprise:

4 departures in the close season of 2025
21 during the 2025-26 playing season
7 so far in the close season of 2026

Changes between the end of the 2024/25 playing season and the start of the 2025/26 season:

WEALDSTONE Neil Gibson resigned on 26 May 2025 and the club appointed Sam Cox.
FC HALIFAX TOWN Chris Millington left on 27 May 2025 and Adam Lakeland was appointed on 14 June 2025
GATESHEAD Carl Magnay resigned on 2 June 2025 and was replaced by Alun Armstrong
FOREST GREEN ROVERS sacked Steve Cotterill, as announced on 26 June 2025, and appointed Robbie Savage 1 July 2025.

Departures during the 2025/26 playing season:
The TWENTY-ONE departures during season 2025-26 are listed below; all were sackings unless otherwise stated...

MORECAMBE: Derek Adams, sacked on 18 August 2025, replaced by Ashvir Singh Johal
YORK CITY: Adam Hinshelwood, replaced by Stuart Maynard (28 August 2025)
YEOVIL TOWN: Mark Cooper, replaced by Danny Webb
SOLIHULL MOORS: Matt Taylor, replaced by Chris Millington (1 October 2025)
SUTTON UNITED Steve Morison, replaced by Chris Agutter
EASTLEIGH: Kelvin Davis, replaced by Scott Bartlett (24 September 2025)
YEOVIL TOWN: Danny Webb (resignation), replaced by Billy Rowley (25 November 2025)
HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Simon Grayson, replaced by Nicky Featherstone
ALDERSHOT TOWN: Tommy Widdrington (resignation), replaced by John Coleman
ALTRINCHAM: Phil Parkinson, replaced by Neil Gibson
GATESHEAD: Alun Armstrong moved to a new role, replaced by Rob Elliot
BOSTON UNITED: "Parted company" with Graham Coughlan, replaced by Paul Hurst
BRACKLEY TOWN: "Resignation" of Gavin Cowan, appointed at Shrewsbury Town, replaced by Andy Whing on 17 February 2026
MORECAMBE: "Mutually agreed to part ways" with Ashvir Singh Johal, replaced by Jim Bentley, 1 February 2026
EASTLEIGH: Scott Bartlett, "relieved of his duties", replaced as "interim manager" by Richard Hill before Matt Gray was appointed 14 May 2026
WEALDSTONE: Sam Cox, "removed from his position as manager", replaced by Gary Waddock
WOKING: Neal Ardley, "relieved of duties" replaced by interim trio of Craig Ross, Jake Hyde and Dale Gorman before Jermain Defoe was appointed, 29 March 2026
MORECAMBE: Club announced on 14 April 2026 that Jim Bentley was stepping down as manager and that the search for a new manager had begun
HARTLEPOOL UNITED: Club announced on 14 April 2026 that Nicky Featherstone would not be continuing as manager after the end of 25/26 season. Lee Clark was appointed on 14 May 2026
ALDERSHOT TOWN: Club announced on 20 April 2026 that John Coleman would not be continuing as manager after the end of 25/26 season; Scott Davies announced as new manager on 27 April 2026
FC HALIFAX TOWN: On 30 April Adam Lakeland departed from FC Halifax Town to become the manager at Morecambe. On 19/5/26 John McGrath was appointed.

Departures in the close season between the end of the 2025/26 season and the start of the 2026/27 season:

BARROW: Interim head coach Sam Foley left at the end of 25/26 season and the club appointed Adam Murray 12 May 2026
KIDDERMINSTER HARRIERS Adam Murray left on 12 May 2026 to take up a position at Barrow. Replaced by Paul Wotton as announced on 26 May 2026.
SOUTHEND UNITED: Kevin Maher sacked 19 May 2026, Keiron Dyer appointed 8 June 2026
GATESHEAD: Rob Elliott left on 27 May 2026 and joined Carlisle United, at Gateshead he was replaced by Lee Cattermole, as announced on 16 June 2026
CARLISLE UNITED: Mark Hughes left by mutual agreement and Rob Elliot appointed in his place on 28 May 2026
ROCHDALE: Jimmy McNulty left promoted Rochdale for Stockport County on 5 June 2026; Ian Thompson appointed 9 June 2026
WOKING: Jermain Defoe left by mutual agreement, as announced on 23 July 2026

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Boston United's third signing in two days is through "the signature of influential defender Jake Rooney on a permanent basis.

The 22-year-old has put pen-to-paper to join the Pilgrims following a hugely productive loan spell from Derby County last season.

Rooney scored three goals in 16 appearances as Paul Hurst's side secured a 12th place finish in the National League – and now returns to Lincolnshire a fortnight ahead of the club's third campaign back in the top flight of non-league football".

Yesterday we reported the arrival on Wednesday of Jamie Grimes but also on Wednesday Boston United "signed Sheffield United right-back Sai Sachdev on a loan deal running until the January transfer window.

The 21-year-old defender has spent the opening weeks of pre-season as part of the Blades' first team set-up, including a training camp in Spain...

Sachdev has made two senior appearances for the Bramall Lane club to date – in addition to a brief loan spell with Oldham Athletic in 2024.

The Leicester-born full-back links up with fellow Blade Luke Faxon in Lincolnshire".

One of the more exotic pre-season games for a National League club saw Eastleigh "beaten by a strong Valenciennes side at the Silverlake Stadium. ..

Matt Gray’s second home game in charge saw the Spitfires face third tier French side Valenciennes, just four days after the home defeat to the French side’s sister club Southampton.

The Spitfires were unchanged following their 3-1 defeat to Southampton last Saturday, which saw summer signing Nick Akoto open his account on his home debut after just 14 minutes...

Eastleigh: Townsend (Trialist 55′), Drake (Trialist 45′) , Sidwell (Underhill 45′), Bakare (Killick 61′), Eweka (Pierre 45′), Dickov (Ihnatenko 45′), Blair (Stone 61′), Trialist (Kelly 61′), Akoto (Mcfarlane 61′), Ghandour (Trialist 45′), Cousins (C)(Colwill 45′)"

Harrogate Town "confirm the signing of Rohan Vaughan, following a successful trial period with the club.

The 20-year-old forward has featured in all three of our pre-season fixtures so far and now signs a one year deal, with the option of a further year.

'He’s a young, powerful centre forward and we like his attitude and potential', Revealed Head of Player Recruitment Lloyd Kerry.

'We see him as a forward who can be a real handful for defenders, but he’s played wing back in pre-season and has a great left foot'...

Vaughan started his career at Burnley before signing for QPR in 2024, while gaining valuable experience out on loan at Oxford City, Dundalk and Dartford".

23 July 2026

NEIL'S REACTION

Speaking to George Allen after the goalless draw at Chorley on Tuesday, Altrincham FC reported manager Neil Gibson as saying that the first half performance had been "a bit sloppy", with the players "off our intensity levels for our pressing".

However, the manager judged that there had been "an improvement in the second half" in what was, overall, an "honest, good game".

Neil feels that the side has to be "brighter in the final third" and that with new players bedding in, the "combinations are not quite where we want them to be" yet.

CHORLEY VIEW

The Lancashire Evening Post reports that "Chorley continued their pre-season preparations with a hard-fought goalless draw against National League side Altrincham at Victory Park.

In a closely-contested encounter, clear-cut opportunities were few and far between, with both sides producing disciplined defensive displays throughout.

The Magpies came closest to breaking the deadlock six minutes after the restart.

New signing Elliot Taylor, who has arrived from Burscough, reacted quickest to a loose ball on the edge of the area before curling a low effort agonisingly wide of the far post, with the goalkeeper well-beaten.

Altrincham’s best opportunity arrived in the second half through substitute Charlie Kirk (above, right), who capitalised on a loose ball inside the penalty area and drove an effort towards the near post, only to see his shot clip the top of the crossbar."

NEXT: MACCLESFIELD FC

Altrincham welcome Macclesfield FCto the J. Davidson Stadium on Saturday for the Robins' first home match of pre-season.

Since Alty and the Silkmen last met in a pre-season game at the Moss Rose in 2023, there has been a change of manager at both clubs, with Neil Gibson taking over at Altrincham and John Rooney taking over from Robbie Savage at Macclesfield.

Macclesfield finished fourth last season in National North but were defeated by Kidderminster Harriers in the promotion play offs.

Familiar faces at Macclesfield include defender SAM HEATHCOTE and midfielders ELLIOT OSBORNE and GEORGE WILSON, (pictured below, left to right).

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan's reports on Wednesday's action.

Friendly : ALI SMITH played the first 75 minutes of AFC Wimbledon's goalless home match with Norwich City, who left CALEB ANSEN on the bench.

Despite a full shift from CARL PIERGIANNI, Stevenage were beaten 0-5 at home by West Ham United.

JOSH LUNDSTRAM wasn't in the Eastleigh squad which lost 0-3 at the Silverlake Stadium to French second tier side Valenciennes and neither was CHRIS CONN-CLARKE involved as Peterborough United scored the only goal at Peterborough Sports.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

There were three new signings announced on Wednesday at Southend United. For Alty fans the most interesting was "the signing of RYAN COLCLOUGH on a one-year contract with a club option for a second year.

The 31-year-old scored seven goals in 30 appearances during Chesterfield’s National League title-winning 2023/24 campaign and boasts a total of 197 EFL appearances across his career, as well as two League One titles.

Colclough links back up with Head Coach Kieron Dyer after working together at the Spireites...

Said Colclough... 'Obviously I’ve worked with the gaffer before, so I know what he wants'...

'Ryan [right] is someone I know well,' Dyer commented. 'He is a direct winger who can play on the left or on the right. He’s very quick and one of the best players at taking opponents on in one-vs-one situations'">

Footnote: Alty fans will recall that another ex-Altrincham winger also joined Southend United in recent years. That was DAN MOONEY whose stay in Essex was not a happy one for either party.

Also signing on at Roots Hall is a summer trialist as Southend United confirm the arrival of Tommy Backwell who "has put pen-to-paper on a one-year contract – with a Club option for an additional year – having impressed while training with the Club since the first day of pre-season.

The former Bristol City and Cheltenham Town midfielder... Backwell said 'I’ve enjoyed it here since day one. It’s a huge club in the National League, and the gaffer [Kieron Dyer] has come and wants to play good football, so I feel this suits me'...

Formerly a scholar at Southampton, Backwell came through the ranks at Bristol City before a loan spell at Cheltenham Town gave him his first professional games...

He completed a permanent switch to the Gloucestershire outfit in February 2025... The 23-year-old then enjoyed a loan spell at Weston-super-Mare FC">

And Southend United also announce that "Sahid Kamara has agreed a two-year contract with a club option for a third.

The former Braintree Town winger signs for the Shrimpers having starred while on trial at the Club...

Holding both Dutch and English citizenship, Kamara’s signing is subject to international approval,,,

Kamara said... 'I like the gaffer’s [Kieron Dyer] plans, I like his philosophy with attacking football, and I think I can bring my qualities to it.'

Kamara spent time in the academies of both Charlton Athletic and Birmingham City before earning his first senior minutes in the National League South while on loan at Welling United.

The 22-year-old made 18 appearances for the Wings in 2024/25, before joining Braintree Town having been released by Birmingham City">

As well as Altrincham, Barrow were another National League side to play pout a goalless draw against National North opposition on Tuesday night.

"The Bluebirds dug out a hard-fought 0-0 draw away at Radcliffe ... The fourth game of pre-season turned out to be a very different affair to last time out, where the scoring frenzy of the Mansfield game was not so easily replicated.

The hosts sat deep and soaked up a lot of pressure, making it difficult for Adam Murray's Barrow side to create more than the few big chances they did.

Speaking on the game, Manager Adam Murray said 'It was a real game of football. Last night was very physical, and they gave us different challenges to what we’ve dealt with so far in pre-season.

'We spent a lot of time during the game with the ball, which gave us a clear indication of the areas we need to improve on in possession."

'Our intensity and work rate were excellent throughout. We had two goals disallowed that, looking back at the footage, were perfectly okay...

'Even in pre-season, we want the mentality of, ‘If we can’t win, we don’t get beat.’"

There has been a double signing at Forest Green Rovers where the club "announce the signing of midfielder Kyle Kelly on loan from Liverpool FC... for a period of six months.

Kyle is an emerging talent, having played through the Liverpool youth system since he was 14..

Kelly is a left-footed midfielder who, in March 2024, debuted for St. Kitts and Nevis after representing England at U15 level...

Manager Robbie Savage said, 'What a great guy, very excited to have Kyle join us at FGR. He loves a tackle, loves getting around the pitch, a very promising young talent who is thought of very highly at Liverpool'">

Meanwhile the BBC reports that Rovers have also signed Omari Patrick, aged 29, who "left Tranmere at the end of last season having scored seven goals in 41 games during 2025-26.

He has also played for Carlisle, where he was part of the team that won promotion to League One in 2023, as well as Sutton United, Bradford City and Kidderminster".

Boston United "have completed the signing of experienced defender Jamie Grimes following his departure from Chesterfield.

The 35-year-old, who spent a hugely successful loan spell at the Jakemans Community Stadium between February and April, has put pen-to-paper on an initial one-year deal to become a permanent addition to the United squad.

Grimes' 16 appearances in amber and black included eight wins, five clean sheets and one crucial goal at Forest Green Rovers.

His arrival bolsters a backline which has already welcomed George Ward, Lewis Shipley and Sai Sachdev this summer".

Yahoo Sports reports that "Gateshead have signed defender Jack Robinson and New Zealand Under-20 international striker Luke Supyk after successful trials.

Former Middlesbrough man Robinson, 25, has signed a one-year deal after missing the 2025-26 season through injury.

Supyk, 20, left A-League side Wellington Phoenix at the end of last season and has signed a two-year contract after scoring three times during his trial spell.

'Everyone has been real welcoming since I've come here and I've had a few good games under my belt,' he told the club website".

Wealdstone "announce the signing of 24-year-old attacking midfielder Dan Chesters..

Chesters joins the Stones following two seasons with Salford City, having started his career in the academy at West Ham United.

He made his senior debut for the Hammers in 2021, coming off the bench in a UEFA Europa League win over Genk, before gaining further first-team experience during loan spells with Colchester United and Salford City.

The midfielder has spent the past two weeks training with Gary Waddock’s squad...

He is capable of playing as both an attacking midfielder and a wing-back...

Manager Gary Waddock said... 'There was interest in him from elsewhere, so we are delighted that he has chosen to join us@".

22 July 2026

CHORLEY 0-0 ALTRINCHAM

Ten days after completing their only previous pre-season ninety-minute fixture at Colwyn Bay, Altrincham ended their away schedule with a goalless draw at Victory Park on Tuesday night.

Match report here

ALTRINCHAM: 1. Owen Evans, 2. Lewis Banks, 24. Sam Barnes, 25. Joel Bailey, 4. Jack Hinchy, 12. Kian Breckin, 22. Tom Crawford (c), 7. Otis Khan, 16. Remi Raymond, 20. Kahrel Reddin, 9. Kristian Dennis,

Substitutes: 27. Louie Fallon, 5. Jake Cooper, 8. Liam Humbles, 10. Aidan Barlow, 15. Sam Taylor, 17. Lucas Weaver, 6. Charlie Olson, 23. Charlie Kirk, 11. Jimmy Knowles.

NEXT: MACCLESFIELD FC

Altrincham's first home game of the summer takes place on Saturday (25th) when Macclesfield FC are the visitors to the J. Davidson Stadium.

The last pre-season clash between the two sides came in July 2023 at the Moss Rose when Alty won 2-1.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports...

Scottish League Cup : With their home tie against Hamilton Academicals goalless, Kilmarnock, who had rested a few regulars, brought JOE HUGILL into the action after 55 minutes. However it was his fellow sub Greg Kiltie who struck the game's only goal 5 minutes later.

It took TYRESE SINCLAIR only 11 minutes to put Livingston ahead at home to Forfar Athletic, and it helped to earn him a breather as his side went in at the break 4-0 up, and substituted him and two others there and then.

It was a very one-sided game, Livingston having 25 (19) shots to Forfar's 3 (1), so it was hardly surprising that it finished 8-0.

There was an interesting encounter on Tuesday evening as Hednesford Town, with BEN LOMAX in their starting XI and DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY on the bench, entertained a PFA squad, selected from free agents looking for new clubs. HARRISON HOLGATE was among those on view, and Louis, JAKE MOULT's brother, was also involved.

The game was a 2-2 draw. Dylan played the second half, as Hednesford came back from a 0-2 deficit, and was fouled for the penalty which yielded the equaliser.

Although he wasn't in the squad, it is believed that JOSH GINNELLY is part of the project, having apparently been in Azerbaijan until recently.

Champions League Qualifier : Larne were no match for their Serbian visitors, Red Star Belgrade, and lost the first leg 0-4. MONTEL GIBSON was an unused substitute.

ALTY FOUNDATION FUNDRAISER

Altrincham FC carries a report by "Head of Foundation, Simon Dow, on his team's 24-mile Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge.

'For this year's fundraising challenge, the Alty FC Foundation team decided to push themselves a little further to raise money for the programmes we deliver across Altrincham and Trafford.

'After some research, we settled on taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge – a gruelling 24-mile route featuring over 1,500 metres of ascent across Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. It was certainly going to be a tough test, but one that everyone was excited to tackle. '

Following practice walks and plenty of fundraising appeals, we set off at 6am on Friday July 17th, ready for the challenge ahead...

'Completing the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge was a fantastic achievement for Grahame, Dan, Mattie, Abbie, William, Marc and Simon. Although exhausted, we were all incredibly proud to have completed the challenge and, most importantly, to have raised vital funds to support the amazing programmes delivered by the Alty FC Foundation.

'A huge thank you to our sponsors – Wiseup Networks, HR Dept, DJH, SK Kits and Rights & Media. Your support was invaluable in helping us take on this challenge.

'Finally, thank you to everyone who donated. Your generosity helped make this challenge an incredible success, and every contribution will make a real difference to the communities we support.

'There is still time to donate if you haven’t had chance to do so, by clicking here'".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

FC Halifax Town "confirm the loan signing of goalkeeper True Grant, from Championship side Stoke City.

Originally coming through the youth setup at Derby County, Grant made the switch to Manchester City at the age of 12. The shot-stopper went on to become a regular for the Elite Development Squad and under 19s in Premier League 2 and the UEFA Youth League. Grant was included on the bench for the first team’s UEFA Champions League group stage fixture against Red Star in 2023.

In July 2024, John McGrath brought Grant on loan to Buxton. The ‘keeper made 41 appearances in the National League North, keeping 10 clean sheets and conceding just 52 in the league. The ‘keeper... made the move to Stoke City in the summer of 2025".

Also signing a goalkeeper are Sutton United< who "confirm the signing of Spike Brits on a season-long loan deal from Manchester City.

The dynamic, technical goalkeeper returns to his home city after making the move to Manchester in 2023, and will aim to make the number one spot his own after joining Chris Haigh and Klevis Muca within the goalkeeping union.

Hailing from Kingston-upon-Thames, Brits spent ten years in the youth ranks at AFC Wimbledon... It was Pep Guardiola’s side that secured Brits’ signature in June 2023... for a club record fee received for an academy player...

Brits said 'I’m buzzing to be here and joined the club for the season, especially being local lad who grew up in the area...

Chris Agutter added... 'I really believe it’s another statement of our intent in terms of what we want to achieve at Sutton United this season. We appreciate Manchester City’s trust in developing one of their top talents. This in itself is a reflection of the great work that is happening at Sutton United FC.'

He will wear the number one shirt during his stint at Gander Green Lane, vacated ever since the departure of Jack Sims at the start of the month".

Kidderminster Harriers report that "Zachary Willis has put pen to paper on a Harriers deal following a successful summer trial.

The versatile defender, capable at full back, the heart of defence or further forward, has been training with the group this summer and featured in our last two friendly squads at ‘Player D.’

Zachary came through the ranks at Birmingham City and progressed to U21 level, featuring extensively last season for the Blues, alongside a first senior loan at Peterborough Sports.

He left Birmingham in the summer and now calls Aggborough his home">

21 July 2026

TONIGHT: CHORLEY 0-0 ALTRINCHAM

On Tuesday (7.45pm), Altrincham face Chorley at Victory Park in their latest pre-season game.

So far this summer the Robins have drawn 2-2 at Colwyn Bay and experienced an abandoned match at Wythenshawe Town which was goalless when terminated after 43 minutes.

Given the lack of game time for the squad so far, it would not be surprising if, once again, Neil Gibson utilizes a much-changed side in the second half of the game.

Last season Chorley finished fifteenth in the twenty-four strong Enterprise National North division.

ALTY'S NEW HOME KIT

After a single season wearing the "pinstripe" home kit, Altrincham FC now announces "the all-new Altrincham FC 2026/27 Puma home shirt...

Right: Kahrel Reddin will be wearing a different Altrincham home shirt in 2026-27. Here we see him in last season's home kit.

The shirt features dryCELL moisture wicking technology to help keep you cool and comfortable, while the lightweight performance fabric makes it ideal for both matchdays and everyday wear. A premium woven club crest completes the look with a high quality finish.

As with our new away kit, a full complement of kit partners feature - with long-time backers AO and McHale & Co. Solicitors joined by the recently announced Banks & Lloyd and CEG.

Our new home kit will make its on-field debut on Saturday when we take on Macclesfield at The J.Davidson Stadium...

Prices for 2026/27 are frozen at £42 for junior shirts, with adult shirts priced at £49.99".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports...

Friendly : FC United travelled to Trafford, and GEZ SITHOLE rounded off the scoring in their 0-3 win from the penalty spot. SEAN HIGGINS was a second half substitute for the hosts.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

In Sunday's Non-League Paper "AFC Fylde chief David Haythornthwaite has taken aim at the National League fixtures, insisting the scheduling does not put clubs and fans first".

Although "Participating clubs receive an increased broadcast fee this season, £10,000, split 75% for the home club and 25% for away", Haythornthwaite points out that £2,500 does not go far for every club like Fylde when it "has a 12.30pm [kick off] in London" necessitating an overnight stay.

In fact, Fylde has six 12.30pm kick offs assigned so far in the schedules which, so far as broadcasting changes to kick-off times and dates are concerned, have only been published up to January 2027; and three of those games are away in the capital.

He also stated "Then we go to Friday night kick-offs, [which are] no good to us a a club. We need a Saturday to get all the revenue". Fylde have three such fixtures whereas some competitors only have a single Friday evening game.

The festive season is another bone of contention for the chairman with Fylde assigned a home game for New Year on January 2nd against distant Boreham Wood rather than a return fixture with their (relatively) near neighbours Barrow who host the Coasters on Boxing Day.

At Kidderminster Harriers "Paul Wotton has admitted Levi Amantchi’s arrival at Aggborough ended a four-year pursuit of the striker.

Former Walsall man Amantchi joined the club on a season-long loan from Gateshead on Friday and bagged a goal in the 2-0 win at Halesowen 24 hours later...

The gaffer said 'That’s what Levi is. I’ve tried signing Levi the last four years, and he’s had a stop-start career over the last couple of years, but there’s a player in there – I know there is.

'I think I can get it out of him and I’m really happy to have him. He’s an honest lad.

'We need different options in the team, we need all sorts, we need different things'...

Harriers also signed winger Ethan Moore last week, though fans only caught a glimpse of the youngster in the warm-up as he continues to boost his summer fitness'...

Added Wotton... 'He brings us pace, power and he’s very direct. He’s a great age, but he’s building up his fitness'">

20 July 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports ...

USL League Two : Corpus Christi travelled to Paterson, New Jersey and earned a goalless draw against New York Cosmos, with SAM ROSCOE putting in a full shift. Cosmos are the third incarnation of the once famous name, and are in their first season, currently bottom of the league.

The original club, which had such notable players as Pelé, and Franz Beckenbauer, was formed in 1971. After the club folded in 1985, an attempt was made to launch it again in 2013, but it collapsed in 2020. Perhaps this time they'll be able to pick up on the feel-good factor in the USA generated by the World Cup.

Isle of Man Tournament : Shrewsbury Town comfortably beat their hosts 0-4 to finish 3rd. KEVIN BERKOE started, and also went out for the second half although he could well have been substituted during that period.

In the final it was Radcliffe v Bury (or Bern v Jonno!) and JORDAN HULME was in Radcliffe's starting lineup.

After a goalless first half, Bury went ahead after 58 minutes. 3 minutes later BRAD JACKSON came off the Radcliffe bench, only to see Bury increase their lead from the spot in the 71st minute. Although Radcliffe pulled one goal back, an injury to their trialist keeper at the start of added time led to the referee ending proceedings a tad early, so Radcliffe lost 1-2.

CONN-CLARK REVIVING HIS PETERBOROUGH CAREER

Elsewhere, Cumbria's News & Star reports that "Transfer-listed former Carlisle United loan man Chris Conn-Clarke could have earned a route back to favour at Peterborough United.

The attacking midfielder, who spent most of last season at Brunton Park, has made a positive impression at the start of pre-season with his League One club.

Posh boss Luke Williams has spoken highly of Conn-Clarke's attitude and performance levels so far.

And the club's chairman Darragh Macanthony says the 24-year-old could yet have a future at London Road despite being made available for a move at the end of last season... Macanthony said 'The manager isn’t one who pesters me for new players. He wants to improve the ones he already has and he’s been raving about Chris Conn-Clarke who has returned in great shape.

'We’ve been here before with Chris, but if he can... come good after a couple of poor seasons he will get his chance'".

He is working under manager Williams for the first time, the Peterborough boss having taken charge last season after Conn-Clarke had made his loan move to Brunton Park.

'It’s the first time I’ve worked with Chris,”' Williams said. 'And I’ve enjoyed working with him. He is the type of player who can produce something out of the ordinary. He’s a real quality player, but he he was also prepared to work hard to shut space down, track back and try to regain possession.

'You add his quality to that work-rate and you have one hell of a player'...

The former Altrincham man struggled for a regular place in Mark Hughes' starting XI in the closing months of the National League campaign".

Footnote: As previously pointed out in the Alty Files, no fewer than six of Altrincham's Saturday matches have been moved from 3pm, with five assigned to 12.30pm and one to a 5.30pm kick off. Three of these affected Saturday games are home fixtures.

Alty have eleven evening (7.45pm) kick-offs of which two are on Fridays and two are on Wednesdays, the rest are on Tuesdays.

19 July 2026

NEXT: CHORLEY

Many of Altrincham's squad have enjoyed no more than one half of match-time so far this summer, following the abandonment of the game at Wythenshawe Town last week and the subsequent cancellation of yesterday's planned fixture at Vauxhall Motors.

Neil Gibson will hope to give 22 players another 45 minutes on Tuesday night when the Robins visit Victory Park, Chorley for another friendly encounter.

The Magpies and Robins last met in a league encounter in 2019 when the Lancashire club defeated Altrincham in a National North play-off semi-final at Chorley which the host won 3-1 on penalties in a shootout after a 1-1 draw.

Chorley went on to spend just a single season in the National League in the truncated 2019-20 season, so had been relegated by the 2020-21 season when Altrincham effectively took their place at national level.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports...

Scottish League Cup : KIAN TAYLOR (left) unusually started up front for Airdrie, and it was he who scored to send them in at the break with the lead over visitors Annan Athletic. By the time he was substituted after 85 minutes his side had wrapped up a 3-0 win.

Kilmarnock would have been expected to win comfortably at Elgin City, but having a man sent off after 37 minutes wasn't helpful, and it was in the 93rd minute that JOE HUGILL finally scored the only goal of the game.

To have any real chance of winning their group, Livingston had to win their home game against runaway leaders Patrick Thistle. TYRESE SINCLAIR set up the goal that put them ahead, but was substituted after 87 minutes with the score at 1-1. Livingston proceeded to miss 3 of their 5 penalties, and lost 2-3.

South Korea K League 2: MARCUS DACKERS barely got a kick, only coming off the Daegu bench at Gimpo in the 96th minute of a 1-1 draw.

Friendlies : Stevenage took on Andorra (who play in the Spanish second tier) at San Pedro del Pinatar in Murcia. CARL PIERGIANNI played the first half. The game ended goalless.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR started for Grimsby Town in Slovenia as they took on Ukrainian opposition in Zorya Luhansk. They were behind in 6 minutes, but levelled just before the break, at which point Justin was substituted. There were no further goals.

Although TOM HANNIGAN (right) hit the post, Bootle went down 2-0 at Llandudno.

CHRIS MERRIE started on the bench as AFC Fylde entertained Huddersfield Town. The Coasters took a 6th minute lead, which they still held at the break, and CRAIG MAHON sent Chris on for the second period. Within 4 minutes of the restart the Terriers scored twice to turn the game round, and hung in to win 1-2.

Aldershot Town led visitors Farnborough Town 1-0 when MARCUS DINANGA came off the bench after an hour, and provided the assist for his side's second goal 6 minutes later. Despite conceding late on, Shots won 2-1.

LEWIS BAINES and ELLIOTT NEWBY started for Morecambe at Bamber Bridge. It was from Elliott's corner that the Shrimps scored their second goal, and soon afterwards he forced a good save from Bridge keeper Goodness Gospel-Eza. By the time he was substituted in the 86th minute Morecambe had wrapped up a 0-3 win.

Manchester United met Wrexham in Helsinki, and DERMOT MEE was the one out of 3 keepers who didn't get onto the field. Wrexham won with the only goal of the game. With neither Senne Lammens nor Karl Darlow available, it must be assumed that Dermot is now only 5th in the Old Trafford pecking order.

DYLAN MOTTLEY- HENRY started for Hednesford Town, while BEN LOMAX came on for the second half. At that point the Pitmen were leading, but visitors Solihull Moors soon turned things round and won 1-2.

ELLIOTT OSBORNE, GEORGE WILSON, and SAM HEATHCOTE all started for Macclesfield at home to Wolves U21. It was Sam who headed home from a 20th minute corner to open the scoring, and 22 minutes later he did exactly the same thing. Both he and George were replaced after an hour, but Elliott played the whole of the Silkmen's 2-1 win.

Matlock Town have announced the retirement at the age of 32 of JONNY MARGETTS (left). He had knee surgery recently but has, unfortunately, suffered a post-operative reaction.

MONTEL GIBSON had been an early player to slip under the radar, leaving Hednesford Town to sign for Ulster club Larne. He played the first 64 minutes of their 0-1 Champions League qualifier victory at Tre Fiori in San Marino, and the first 59 minutes of their 2-1 home second leg win last Tuesday. On Tuesday evening they play their home first leg against Serbian outfit Red Star Belgrade.

ETHAN ROSS wasn't involved in Forest Green Rovers' 1-2 win at Merthyr Town.

It's been a busy summer at Southport. LUKE BURGESS played in the first 60 minute game against visitors Fleetwood Town, who won 0-1 while new signings REGAN GRIFFITHS and HARRY PERRITT (right) played in the second game, which finished the same way. TOBY MULLARKEY played for Fleetwood in the second game.

Spalding United drew 2-2 with visitors Scunthorpe United, withdrawing YUSIFU CEESAY after 64 minutes. ROSS BARROWS started for the Iron, and put them 0-2 up with a shot from practically on the halfway line.

The whole line up was changed at 1-2 on the hour when DECLAN HOWE was among those joining the action.

One of the more bizarre decisions of the close season was York City's release of last season's ever present goalkeeper Harrison Male. Those who remember George Sykes-Kenworthy shipping 6 goals at Altrincham will be utterly amazed that he now appears to be first choice.

They will be less surprised to learn that he gave way to a trialist at half time after visitors Sunderland hit 4 unanswered goals. The trialist fared better, and the game ended 1-5, with JEFF KING and ALEX NEWBY among the Minstermen's second half contingent.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Barrow "confirm that Wyll Stanway has left the club to join Cheltenham Town for an undisclosed fee.

Stanway joined the Bluebirds in the summer of 2024 from Chester and has made over 60 professional appearances for the club.

Barrow-born Stanway leaves with everyone at the club's best wishes and we know he'll make the club and the town proud in his future career".

Footnote: Goalkeeper Stanway made 45 appearances for The Bluebirds in 2025-26 season.

Against Oldham-based club Avro, FC Halifax Town "fell to a 4-3 defeat in The Shaymen’s fifth pre-season outing.

It took 16 minutes to open the scoring. A defensive error left the Avro player with a tap in and Sam Johnson with no chance to keep it out...

Town did find the back of the net after 28 minutes. Josh Hmami’s corner was flicked on at the near post by Amari Morgan-Smith, and found the back of the net via an Avro man.

The hosts retook the lead within five minutes...

The Shaymen for back level on 36 minutes. Allen’s cross from the left found the head of Hmami, who’s flicked header looped over the keeper to make it 2-2.

Avro retook the lead early in the second half, with a tidy finish low to Johnson’s left.

Town again struck back. This time Trialist F cut in from the left-hand side, took it round a defender and slotted it into the bottom left corner.

Once again, the hosts got themselves in front. A low ball into the box was tucked away on the stretch to make it 4-3."

At Kidderminster Harriers< "winger Ethan Moore has become the latest member of the Harriers squad after penning a deal ahead of the new term.

Moore is a product of the Sunderland Academy, where he rose through the ranks and overcame a serious knee injury to return to action last season.

As well as featuring 16 times for their PL2 outfit last term, he bagged crucial senior experience in the National League as part of the Gateshead side that pulled of a remarkable escape from relegation danger.

He made 11 appearances for the Heed, starting and scoring in their final game of the term at Altrincham.

With the bit firmly back between his teeth, the pacey 21-year-old has chosen to call Aggborough his home".

Down on the South Coast, Worthing "announce the signing of goalkeeper Harrison Foulkes...

The former Dorking Wanderers shot-stopper has embarked on the next step of his career, taking the leap into National League football at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium.

Foulkes will be a familiar figure to many Worthing supporters, with the 25-year-old turning out for several rivals over the years. Most recently and notably, Foulkes held the position of number one at Dorking Wanderers for two years, where he was regarded as one of Non-League’s finest netminders.

Born in Sussex, the young prospect was snapped up by Hull City as a teenager and was sent out on multiple loans at Pickering FC to aid his development.

The ‘keeper then swapped Humberside for Derbyshire, with a move to Pride Park – the home of Derby County. Loans at Ilkeston Town and Kettering Town would follow in due course.

After two years on the books at Pride Park, the Englishman relocated back down to the South Coast, penning a deal with Eastbourne Borough.

A solitary successful season... convinced Dorking Wanderers to snap up his services.... Foulkes accrued almost a century of appearances for Marc White’s side, barely missing a match in consecutive campaigns...

Last campaign, he collected a treble of individual accolades, winning the Supporters Player of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season and Bunch of Amateurs Player of the Season...

On his move, Harrison said.. 'Stepping into the National League, that’s where I want to be now in my career'".

Meanwhile, in Surrey, "Chris Agutter believes Sutton United took another positive step forward in their pre-season preparations despite suffering a late defeat to League One side AFC Wimbledon.

The U’s led for much of the contest through Temi Babalola’s first goal for the club, before conceding twice in the closing stages to fall to their first loss of pre-season...

'It was a really good workout,' he said. 'Same as the other two games, we split the group into 45-minute blocks as best as possible while managing a few lads who weren’t quite ready for Saturday-Tuesday football yet. All in all, I’m really happy... I thought, at times, we were very, very good today. Defensively we were excellent'...

Having faced National League South opposition in their opening two friendlies, the Head Coach believes... 'We’re going to be a really good side... The players need to be robust, they need to get used to working under fatigue. They’ve played 45 minutes today with tired legs against a very good League One side'...

The Sutton boss also confirmed that the withdrawals of Alex Kirk and Emmanuel Osadebe were purely precautionary".

18 July 2026

ALTY'S CANCELLATION LEADS TO MOTORMEN'S PROBLEMS

Following the as yet unexplained cancellation by Altrincham of their planned game today (Saturday) at Rivacre Park, would-be hosts Vauxhall Motors have issued "the following statement regarding the fixture against Altrincham and the proposed fixture against Mold Alexandra.

Vauxhall Motors FC were scheduled to host Altrincham FC in an excellent pre-season friendly tomorrow [Saturday] afternoon which would bring people through the turnstile and ultimately bring money to a club in pre-season with a bumper crowd and an appealing fixture.

However, we were saddened to hear that Altrincham had cancelled the fixture with not much notice for tomorrow [Saturday], which left us looking for alternatives.

We put a message out to numerous contacts regarding a fixture opportunity at the Premier Jet Stadium on Saturday afternoon, to which Mold Alexandra were one of the first to come back and take us up on an offer.

We were unaware at the time that Mold Alexandra were meant to be visiting Cammell Laird 1907 FC on Saturday afternoon....

After social media comments directed at Vauxhall Motors FC, we then found out that Lairds were meant to host Mold on Saturday afternoon. With this in mind, we have taken the decision to cancel Saturday’s fixture against Mold.

Instead, we will visit Liverpool FC to take on a Liverpool XI, behind closed doors."

NEXT: CHORLEY

Following the abandonment of last Tuesday's fixture at Wythenshawe Town and the unexplained cancellation "due to unforeseen circumstances" of today's game at Vauxhall Motors, Altrincham's third attempt to complete a second ninety-minutes of the summer, following the game at Colwyn Bay a week ago, the next fixture pre-season fixture is on Tuesday night at Chorley.

The Magpies, too, have had a disrupted summer as their planned fixture at home to Preston North End last Wednesday was also called off, owing to the clash with England v Argentina in the World Cup on the same day.

Prior to that Chorley lost 1-2 at home to Bury last Saturday.

Chorley report that they "were narrowly defeated 1-2 by Bury...

A strong Magpie XI in the first half took the lead through a Billy Whitehouse penalty, but the visitors scored twice in the second half through Tom Carr and Oscar Threlkeld against a second -half XI which consisted mostly of youth prospects and trialists.

Andy Preece’s side took the lead in the 11th minute after a trialist was brought down in the box by a Bury defender – Whitehouse stepped up and slotted his penalty past Mitch Allen in goal into the bottom left corner.

Into the second half, Bury drew level – following an error at the back... Then in the 74th minute the winner came for the away side – a corner by Leo Graham was met by Threlkeld on the volley inside the area, and he guided it well into the bottom corner past the trialist keeper".

Familiar faces at Chorley include goalkeeping coach STEVEN DRENCH and forward KOLE HALL

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on Pre-season Friendlies...

Radcliffe are on the Isle of Man where they met Shrewsbury Town at the Ballacloan Stadium in Ramsey. BRAD JACKSON (left) started, but was withdrawn after 64 minutes. With the game goalless after 90 minutes, a penalty shootout took place, and Radcliffe won it 4-2.

Peterborough United are taking part in a football camp at the Banus Football Center (sic) in Marbella. It would seem that CHRIS CONN-CLARKE has been given a chance to redeem his reputation, as he's been given the 38 shirt. He was in the starting lineup against Neom SC from Saudi Arabia, but a completely different lineup appeared after the break. The match ended goalless.

Norwich City have taken a squad of 27 to Switzerland, and CALEB ANSEN was an unused substitute at St.Gallen, where the Canaries strolled to a 0-3 victory, all the goals coming in the first half.

In Australia's NPL Victoria Oakleigh Cannons extended their lead at the top of the table to 7 points with a 0-1 victory at nearest challengers Hume City. CONNOR HAMPSON and his teammates clinched victory with a penalty on the stroke of half time. With only 5 fixtures left in the regulation season, Cannons look well set to finish top, but to become champions they need to also win the subsequent playoffs.

ROSS OF THE ROVERS

Forest Green Rovers "announce the permanent signing of ETHAN ROSS on a one-year deal.

The imposing 6ft 5in goalkeeper will provide a major boost to Robbie Savage's goalkeeping options...

The 29-year-old began his youth career at Arsenal before moving to West Bromwich Albion... During his time with the Baggies, Ross gained senior experience on loan at Worcester City and Redditch United...

Ross joined EFL side Colchester United in 2018. During his two-year spell with the U's, he made 10 appearances and also enjoyed a short loan spell at Maidenhead United.

Ross joined Lincoln City on a free transfer in the summer of 2020... before spending the second half of the 2020/21 National League season on loan at Weymouth. He went on to make 26 appearances for the Terras...

Stockport County signed Ross on a free transfer following his departure from Lincoln in the summer of 2021...

Loan spells with York City and Altrincham helped Ross gain valuable first-team experience before he joined Altrincham on a permanent deal in October 2023. Ross made 65 appearances for the Robins, keeping 19 clean sheets...

Ross suffered a serious knee injury in 2025, which kept him sidelined for an extended period. He was released [sic] by Altrincham following the expiry of his contract this summer.

Manager Robbie Savage said 'Ethan has been training with us over the past week. He is a fantastic goalkeeper and brings a wealth of experience at this level, adding real competition to Pags and Luke. I can't wait to see him in match action'.

Ross will wear the number one shirt for Rovers during the 2026/27 season".

ALTY'S MEDIA TEAM

Altruncham FC's media officer Brian Flynn writes...

We are pleased to announce the appointment of three new volunteer media officers for the 2026/27 season, as part of an expanded media team at The J.Davidson Stadium.

Tom Jolley, Ben Edwards (Altrincham FC Women Media Officer), Jess Barrow

Tom, Ben and Jess join Media Manager Alex Birch, Volunteer of the Year Jonathan Moore (Club Photographer), Club Person of the Year Mark Bennett (Alty TV) and writer John Edwards (editorial and match reports) as part of our expanded media operation, with a number of returning student volunteers - including George Allen, Alex Bartholomew, Ayush Bhattacharjee and Jack Worswick - also involved once more.

Long time Alty media officer Brian Flynn, who is facilitating the media officer induction phase through to the end of August, is also continuing as part of our matchday media team on Radio Robins, Alty TV and DAZN".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The Chronicle Live reports that "Gateshead have claimed the Football Association are investigating a registration ban imposed on them by FIFA.

The situation has echoes of the predicament the Heed found themselves in 12 months ago when the financial outfall of a historic transfer saw them banned from registering new players and contracts ahead of last season.

That issue, which revolved around the signing of defender Harrison Clark after he had spent time with Scottish club Livingston, was resolved in early-July and that allowed the National League club to register a new of new additions to their squad ahead of what would be a dramatic 2025/26 campaign.

The Heed’s name has appeared on a list of clubs under a registration ban on the FIFA website once again and is said to have been in place since May - although the Tynesiders have claimed they received no notification of an issue from world football’s governing body until last week.

Chronicle Live understands Gateshead have had no issues registering their solitary new signing after they completed a deal for former Sunderland academy defender Tommy Lavery and new contracts handed to the likes of Fenton John and Josh Home have also been registered.

The situation is also not expected to hamper the club’s attempts to strengthen their squad ahead of Lee Cattermole’s first season in charge and work to add further new faces to the Heed ranks is ongoing.

Meanwhile, Cattermole has reflected positively on the first week of pre-season friendlies after his side followed up a 6-0 win at Northern League club Blyth Town with draws at Heaton Stannington and National League North newcomers Hebburn Town.

Cattermole has set his sights on ensuring the Heed are ‘well-drilled’".

Aldershot Town "announce the departure of Kiban Rai, who leaves the club with immediate effect.

Kiban joined the Shots in June 2025, becoming the first player of Nepalese descent to represent the club. He would go on to make 18 league appearances...

The midfielder would join Merthyr Town on loan in early February, where he would remain until the end of the campaign. Returning in the summer, he would make a brief cameo in our pre-season opener, which would prove to be his final appearance in an Aldershot Town shirt.

First-team manager Scott Davies has this... 'Kiban has been extremely unfortunate this summer with the rebuild that’s taken place. We felt as though we managed to secure some top attacking players which meant that Kiban would be surplus to requirements'".

FC Halifax Tow confirm the loan signing of attacking midfielder Arian Allen, from League One side Stockport County.

The attacking midfielder joined Everton’s academy at the age of 10, where he spent the following six years. Allen then made the move up to Scotland to sign for Rangers’ academy in February 2024. In February 2025, Allen made the move to Stockport, joining the Emerging Talents Programme at the club.

Allen was given an opportunity to train and play with the first-team in pre-season, featuring in friendlies against Salford City and Hull City in the summer of 2025. He made his debut for the club in the Carabao Cup against Crewe Alexandra, and signed a new deal with Stockport that August, keeping him at the club until 2027.

Boreham Wood can confirm that midfielder Aaron Henry has joined fellow Enterprise National League side Wealdstone.

Aaron joined the club in July of last year following his departure from Charlton Athletic. In November, the Wood number 14 joined then National League South side Hornchurch on a loan until being recalled at the end of January...

[In the] the National League Cup Final in March, and with the Wood trailing 2-1 to West Ham United in the final minutes, Aaron Henry produced the all-important equaliser with a low-driven strike from long range, sending Meadow Park into ecstasy before Luke Garrard’s men triumphed on penalties."

Kidderminster Harriers "have signed experienced former Walsall and Rochdale striker Levi Amantchi.

25-year-old joins us on a season-long loan from Gateshead, where he’s already played a part in their pre-season preparations for the National League term ahead.

The Heed signed Amantchi from Walsall last season, the striker ending a loan spell at eventual National League play-off winners Rochdale before moving to the International Stadium.

The former Bromley and Maidstone man featured 19 times for Gateshead at the back end of the last campaign and will be a member of Paul Wotton’s ranks for the full term ahead.

Gateshead have more on this.

Hornchurch "announce the signing of midfielder Asher Yearwood from Maidenhead United.

The exciting, goalscoring midfielder joins the club after a successful season at Maidenhead United. Asher has risen through the Non-League pyramid, starting out at Thame United and Risborough Rangers before joining Beconsfield Town.

He then moved to Gosport Borough, scoring 18 goals and providing 11 assists in the 2024/25 season, before joining Maidenhead United. He now will be playing in the National League for the first time.

Speaking on the move, manager Daryl McMahon said... 'He had a very good season last year at Maidenhead... He is a totally different type of profile in midfield to what we already have at the club.

He runs beyond a lot; he runs beyond the centre-forward. He has fantastic energy with a real enthusiasm for the game. He is someone who instantly lifts the session with his enthusiasm, quality, running power and we believe that after a really good season, he is someone we can develop as well. Even though he is 28-years old, he is still someone who has that willing to improve, willingness to learn and we are excited to welcome him.'”

At Wealdstone "Midfielder Aaron Henry has returned to The Vale for a third time and becomes Wealdstone's fourth summer signing.

A creative presence in the middle of the pitch, still only 22, he is already the veteran of two previous Stones' loan spells - and is now putting pen to paper on a permanent deal after Boreham Wood FC and Henry mutually agreed to terminate his Meadow Park contract.

A product of Charlton Athletic's youth system, Wealdstone provided plenty of first-team experience for Henry when he arrived on loan for the second half of the 2021/22 campaign aged just 18; making a positive impression on The Vale faithful during his 20 appearances....

During season 2023/24, he was on loan at Crawley Town in EFL League 2 then later returned for a second Wealdstone stint - playing another 20 times...

National League Rochdale provided a platform for game time in 2024/25, once again on loan... before Boreham Wood captured Henry's signature on a permanent deal last summer...

Said manager Gary Waddock... 'Most recently, he's been in a squad competing at the top of the table so that's also a big plus in terms of the mentality he'll bring to the squad... Aaron is technically very good and he'll get us playing, that's for sure'">

Sutton United's "Chief Operating Officer, Tim Allison, has provided an update regarding changes to the stadium during the off-season...

'Firstly, the pitch has undergone its usual renovation. The pitch is now two years old and has settled nicely since its installation in the summer of 2024. All of last season’s grass, and accumulated organic matter, was stripped along with the top few inches of the surface. The artificial grass stitched deep into the pitch has been “combed” upright back through the multiple tons of sand added to return the pitch to its previous height and grass seed sown to start the process of a brand new playing surface. Already... strong growth has emerged, which is currently being crafted into a Premiership quality playing surface...

The other major outdoor project being undertaken relates to the Sutton United Community Pavilion... The latest iteration of its building commenced during the last season [and] we have seen an acceleration since we hosted Altrincham at the tail end of the season. Foundations have been dug, and piling taking place, such that the building – that has sat for many months in our car park – can shortly be transported into place.

We have had to demolish toilets, reroute electricity and other utilities, and repurpose some of the land behind the Parkside Terrace. Whilst we are still some months away from completion we are hopeful it won’t be long before we have a fully functioning building serving the Club and Community through our Foundation, able to operate 7 days a week throughout the year...

Across other parts of the stadium we have improved some of the toilets with both repairs and renovations taking place. Unfortunately supporter abuse in blocking sinks has led to permanent damage to some of the flooring which has also had to be replaced...

Other stadium improvements include phase 2 (after phase 1 last summer), of the PA upgrade. All areas of the stadium are expected to have new speakers upon completion of phase 2,".

17 July 2026

FRIENDLY AT VAUXHALL MOTORS CALLED OFF

Altrincham FC announce that "At our request, due to unforeseen circumstances, Saturday's friendly against Vauxhall Motors at the Premier Jets Stadium has been cancelled.

Our next pre-season game will be against Chorley at Victory Park on Tuesday evening (7:45pm)".

So, after the abandonment of the midweek friendly at Wythenshawe Town, comes another unexpected event in the club's pre-season.

Unless the "unforeseen circumstances" involve an alternative fixture, Alty's players will be lacking in pre-season pitch-time

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports that in a European Conference League Qualifier, JOHN DISNEY took his Connah's Quay Nomads to Kosovo for their second leg against FC Ballkani, with everything to play for after a goalless first leg.

However, by the 57th minute they were 3-0 down. JAMES JONES and his teammates gave it their best shot, and had pulled two goals by the time a further 20 minutes had elapsed, but couldn't score again, losing 3-2 to end their European interest for this season.

On "X" Pete O'Rourke writes that "RYAN COLCLOUGH is on trial at Southend United. The winger previously worked with Southend manager Kieron Dyer at Chesterfield. The 31-year-old free agent left AFC Fylde in January".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Kidderminster Harriers report that manager "Paul Wotton is hopeful of adding new faces to his ranks within the coming days...

The Harriers boss has confirmed that a deal for a goalkeeper is already in place, though an announcement will have to wait, while progress is also being made on further additions to his squad...

'We’re very close to a couple more as we speak', he explained. The goalkeeper is sorted, but we can’t announce it for a while yet. 'After that, I think, with the two that I’m very hopeful of getting done in the next 24 hours, another two on top of that possibly, so we’re very close'...

He went on 'Yes, I’m happy with the squad. Really happy. It’s about being patient as well. It’s nice to do early business, but you don’t want to do all your business too early. There’s always players coming up and there’s players that you didn’t think were available who you’ve got half a chance of now. It’s just taking time. It’s still a fair way until the first league game'...

He admitted 'Every season it’s becoming more and more difficult recruitment-wise. There’s a lot of people wanting a lot of high wages. Every day that goes past and they haven’t got a club, those wage demands come down. It’s about holding your nerve, definitely'...

The preparations continue with a trip to Halesowen Town on Saturday...

'We’ve got a couple of niggly little injuries that won’t be risked... Every player had 45 minutes on Tuesday night. There’ll probably be a few players we’ll start looking at for an hour because their fitness levels are very high...

'We’re in a good place, we’ve got lots of plates spinning, we’ve got a little bit of recruitment to do which we’re fully on top of'".

Southend United report that "Tom Lawrence has resigned his role as a Director of Southend United Football Club in order to take up a position at another club.

Lawrence joined Southend United as Chief Executive Officer in July 2021, navigating the Club through a particularly challenging period before stepping down from his position at the end of the 2025/26 season".

THe reason for his departure was soon clarified as...

Carlisle United "announce that Tom Lawrence has been selected for the position of Chief Executive Officer.

Tom will begin working with the club this week under an interim employment arrangement while the formal appointment process is completed with the Independent Football Regulator; the permanent appointment as Chief Executive Officer remains subject to the required regulatory approval.

He brings extensive senior leadership experience across both the English Football League and the National League. A qualified solicitor, he has served as Chief Executive Officer at Southend United and Gillingham and currently sits as a Non-Executive Board Member of the National League.

Tom joins Carlisle after more than five years as Chief Executive Officer and In-House Solicitor at Southend United ".

FC Halifax Town "confirm the signing of striker Amari Morgan-Smith, following his departure from fellow National League side Kidderminster Harriers.

Coming through the academy at Crewe Alexandra, the forward spent time on loan at Alsager Town, before making the permanent switch to Stockport County. The forward’s next move was to Ilkeston Town in the Northern Premier League Premier Division...

The move earned Morgan-Smith the move to Luton Town, then in the Conference Premier. The striker scored 18 in 48 across two seasons before joining Macclesfield Town.

Whilst with Macclesfield, Morgan-Smith joined Kidderminster for the first time, on a one-month loan... before being released and signing permanently with the Harriers. After one full season... the forward joined Oldham Athletic, then in League One, in the summer of 2014. Again, just a one season stay before Morgan-Smith returned to non-league to sign for Cheltenham Town...

Upon their return to the Football League, Morgan-Smith was loaned to York City... At the end of the 2016-17 campaign, the forward would join York permanently for their first season in the National League North. In February 2018, the forward made the switch to National League North rivals AFC Telford United. The following summer, the striker joined Alfreton Town...

In June 2020, Morgan-Smith made his return to Kidderminster again".

16 July 2026

ALTY CEO LEAVES

It is exactly nine weeks today since the announcement on 15 May of the appointment of Andy Duff as CEO at Altrincham FC. His appointment was heralded at the time by the club as "a great coup for us".

However, today (Thursday), Altrincham FC has issued a short statement, as follows:

"Altrincham Football Club can confirm Andy Duff has left his role as CEO by mutual agreement.

We thank Andy for his efforts during his time with the football club and wish him well for the future".

Background: On 7 June 2023 the club announced the appointment of its first CEO in the form of John Williams, who had previously been Commercial Director at FC Halifax Town. However, his departure was unexpectedly announced on 5 December 2023 "with immediate effect". Sam Mackenzie (Partnerships Manager) was appointed to the CEO role on an interim basis.

Sam assumed his CEO role initially on an interim basis before being confirmed in 2024. On 13 February 2026 it was announced that Sam Mackenzie would "step away" from her role at the Football Club at the end of the 2025-26 season.

On 15 May Andy Duff's appointment as CEO was announced.

Therefore, the current Board comprises:

Mark Luby (Executive Chairman)
John Coyne (Director of Football Operations)
Sam Mackenzie

THE ABANDONED GAME AT WYTHENSHAWE

One of the media sources to pick up the story of Tuesday's abandoned friendly between Wythenshawe Town and Altrincham is Altrincham Today which tells us that a "Cantona-style' kung fu kick sparks chaos as Altrincham FC match is abandoned. Extraordinarily, the player then appeared to be given an on-pitch dressing down by his mum".

The game at Ericstan Park was called off shortly before half-time after the incident, with the Robins later confirming the referee abandoned the match over concerns for the 'safety and welfare' of both teams.

An eyewitness told Altrincham Today that tensions had been building throughout the first half following a series of robust challenges on what was described as a hard, dry playing surface.

The flashpoint came moments before the interval after Altrincham had the ball in the net.

One supporter said an unidentified Wythenshawe Town player - wearing the number six shirt - then appeared to launch a head-height kick at an Altrincham player, thought to be defender Charlie Olson (left).

'Suddenly the Wythenshawe Town player ran and did a head-height kung fu kick on one of our players,' the supporter said...

Photographs taken after the incident appear to show the player involved being confronted on the pitch by a woman believed by spectators to be a family member, with eyewitnesses suggesting she may have been his mother. Altrincham Today has been unable to independently verify her identity".

In a post on X, Astley Mulholland, joint manager of Wythenshawe Town and a former Alty player, stated "video footage speaks for itself. It clearly shows one of our players being punched while on the floor. Our player then reacts by kicking out".

NEXT: VAUXHALL MOTORS

For the second Saturday running, Altrincham will be heading westwards along the M56 but this time they will be turning off towards Ellesmere Port to face Vauxhall Motors.

Right: Alty take the field at Rivacre Park against Vauxhall Motors in August 2013.

Originally intended to be a fixture predominantly for the Altrincham FC Academy players, the abandonment of Tuesday's game at Wythenshawe Town is expected to convert this match into more of a first-team pre-season game so that squad players can get the planned number of minutes of game time into their system before the start of the season proper.

Apart from Cheshire Senior Cup clashes with the Motormen, the most recent of which featured KEVIN ELLISON's men winning 3-1 at the J Davidson Stadium in October 2024, the clubs last competed in the same league back in 2013-14, at the end of which season Vauxhall took voluntary demotion from Conference North to the West Cheshire League for financial reasons.

The Motormen currently play in the NPL Division One West, step 4 of the non-league pyramid.

ALTY OLD BPYS

Phil Jordan reports that on Wednesday in a Friendly, MARCUS DINANGA scored the clincher as Aldershot Town enjoyed a 2-0 home win over Portsmouth.

CHESHIRE NEWS

Altrincham's first home friendly of the summer, on 25 July, sees Macclesfield FC visit the J. Davidson Stadium.

The National League reports that "One club last season taught everyone that anything is genuinely possible - but this time it’s all about promotion for Macclesfield.

They club created worldwide headlines when they sent FA Cup holders Crystal Palace packing, one of the greatest upsets ever in the famous competition.

They couldn’t quite do the double by winning the Enterprise National League North play-offs, but they want another crack at it.

We asked Silkmen superfan Owen Banks to fill us in on the club’s summer so far..

'I think it'll be a very difficult season but I think we will comfortably finish in the play-offs again...

'The player I'd hate to see get for any money would definitely be Paul Dawson. It would feel season-ending if he left...

'It’s between four clubs. I think the title contenders will be Macc, Morecambe, South Shields and maybe even Hednesford'...

Asked if you could sign one player this summer from any team in the division, who would it be?... 'I am going to say [ex-Alty loanee] DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY from Hednesford'".

NW NEWS

The BBC reports that "The independent football regulator has issued a warning notice to Morecambe after their owners failed to respond to requests about the running of the club.

It is the first time the IFR has taken action since the Football Governance Act passed into law a year ago.

Morecambe directors Kuljit Singh and Harjit Singh failed to reply to two requests for information under section 65 of the Act...

A censure statement gives the IFR the right to name football clubs, owners, directors or senior executives who fail to meet licensing standards.

Other powers include financial penalties, court injunctions demanding compliance and suspension or revocation of a club's operating licence".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The BBC reports that "Hartlepool United have brought in defender Liam Gibson following the expiry of his contract with Harrogate Town.

Gibson has signed a one-year deal at Victoria Park after three seasons with the Sulphurites, with his new club holding the option of an extra year.

The County Durham-born defender, 29, was on the books at Newcastle United as a youngster".

According to News Now "Forest Green Rovers boss Robbie Savage says the club will turn down bids for midfielder Laurent Mendy...

Forest Green finished seventh last season, just inside the play-off places, but lost after extra-time at the eliminator stage ...

There has been renewed speculation in recent days that midfielder Mendy is being lined up for a summer move to Hearts after Savage confirmed they rejected a bid from the Scottish club for the Frenchman in January...

Savage told BBC Radio Gloucestershire 'We had a bid in January for Laurent which we thought was miles under our valuation. There's no bid at all for Laurent Mendy. There has been contact from Hearts but no official offer from Hearts, not from any other club.

'"I think our stance is pretty clear, not for sale... The investment that Dale [Vince] has put into this football club - we want to keep our best players'...

Savage also acknowledged the club were on the lookout for a new goalkeeper...

Savage added 'If a keeper comes in then he will be in competition with the one who does best in pre-season - whether that's Luke [McNicholas] or Pags [Fiachra Pagel].

'Will it be a loan, will it be a free transfer? But if we don't bring one in, it'll be down to Luke and Pags to fight it out for that starting position'".

Off the field News Dive reports that FGR owner "Dale Vince is set to receive compensation from the Daily Mail’s publisher after alleging that the newspaper misrepresented him through the use of his image.

Vince, who has contributed over £5 million to the Labour Party over the years, initiated legal proceedings against Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL) regarding a June 2023 article titled “Labour repays £100,000 to sex pest donor.'

Although the article referred to a different individual, former donor Davide Serra, Vince’s photograph was included alongside the piece...

The headline of the Mail actually indicated that Labour was returning funds to Serra...

Vince contended that the article improperly utilized his personal data, potentially leading readers to mistakenly infer that he was implicated in sexual harassment".

15 July 2026

ALTY ISSUE STATEMENT AFTER ABANDONED GAME

Altrincham FC has issued a statement concerning the abandoned game at Wythenshawe Town on Tuesday evening.

It said, "Tonight's pre-season friendly against Wythenshawe Town was abandoned shortly before half-time following an on-field incident.

The decision to abandon the match was made out of concern for the safety and welfare of both sets of players after the situation escalated.

The match officials will submit their reports to the relevant authorities, and it would be inappropriate for the club to comment further until that process has been completed.

We thank our supporters for their understanding".

FRIENDLY FRACAS

Altrincham's pre-season friendly at Wythenshawe Town was abandoned at 0-0 shortly before half-time following a mass confrontation between the players after a corner.

Earlier Altrincham had lost two of their players (Liam Humbles and his substitute Owen German) to injury on an uneven surface with which, it seems, the visitors had been concerned before kick-off.

Report to follow

Altrincham made four changes from the eleven which started at Colwyn Bay last Saturday. Out went Banks, Jones, Bailey and Khan. In came Olson, Kosylo, Taylor and Kirk.

1. Owen Evans, 14. Matty Kosylo (c), 5. Jake Cooper, 6. Charlie Olson, 23. Charlie Kirk, 26.Anthony Forde, 8. Liam Humbles, 9. Kristian Dennis, 10. Aidan Barlow, 15. Sam Taylor, 17. Lucas Weaver.

UPDATE FROM JOHN COYNE

Altrincham FC's Director of Football, John Coyne has updated supporters with "the latest from The J.Davidson Stadium...

Pre-season is always about building the right foundations for the season ahead... Every player is at a different stage physically, so programmes are tailored to the individual rather than taking a one size fits all approach...

Saturday provided an excellent first run out for the squad, with almost every player getting 45 minutes as we continue to build match fitness in a controlled way...

Looking ahead to the weekend, there still appears to be little sign of the temperatures easing, but we will be taking a squad to Vauxhall Motors for another valuable fixture that should also provide supporters with an easy away trip.

Alongside the remaining announced fixtures at Chorley, Macclesfield and at home to Manchester United Under 21s, we will also face an EFL side behind closed doors on Tuesday 28th July. We are just working with our opponents to coordinate a joint announcement before confirming the details.

Behind the scenes, Neil and Lee continue to work diligently on our recruitment plans.

There are still a couple of areas where we would like to add further strength... We remain well placed to act when the right players become available. We also continue to benefit from some excellent relationships with our partner clubs...

As has been announced elsewhere across the division over the last week, I can confirm that we will not be taking part in the National League Cup this season".

ALTY OLD BOYS

From Phil Jordan we learn that in Tuesday's Friendlies, PHIL PARKINSON'S Chester played behind closed doors at Fleetwood's training ground, and both TOM PEERS and BILLY WATERS completed the first half. Leading 1-0 at the break, the hosts went on to win 2-0.

Boreham Wood made the short journey to Real Bedford, and TYLOR GOLDEN started. The game was level 1-1 at the break, at which point Tylor came off. Wood ran riot in the second period, winning 2-8.

GEZ SITHOLE opened the scoring as FC United beat Rochdale 2-0 at Broadhurst Park.

Scottish League Cup : Having been released by Morton, KIAN TAYLOR has signed for Airdrie. He was left on the bench against his old club last week, but was a 70th minute substitute at Clyde, where his team lost 1-0.

TYRESE SINCLAIR opened the scoring for Livingston as they won 0-2 at Brechin City, before being substituted after 87 minutes.

Having played throughout the goalless home draw with Raith Rovers, Kilmarnock's JOE HUGILL missed the first penalty in the shootout. Fortunately, his teammates were less profligate and they won 4-2.

On the cricket front, Ian Wilkinson advises that NATHAN WATERSON's Cumbria beat Hertfordshire by 49 runs. The former Alty man had top-scored in the Cumbrians' first innings but was first man out in the second innings for five runs.

The win places Cumbria top of the NCCA Cluberly Eastern Division 2.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Southend United "announce that our latest number of season ticket holders in 5,315 – the highest in the Club's 120-year history.

The figure eclipsed our 2006/07 total while the Club competed in the Championship, and also means our number of season ticket holders has increased for a sixth consecutive season.

Speaking on the milestone, Head Coach Kieron Dyer praised the Shrimpers faithful for their commitment to the Clu. 'Before I joined Southend, the thing that stood out to me from the outside was how the supporters got around the team and packed out Roots Hall,' said Dyer".

The BBC reports that "Three organisations have put in bids to operate Halifax's Shay Stadium, Calderdale Council confirmed.

The Shay - home of FC Halifax Town and rugby league club Halifax Panthers - was set to be sold to Ken Davy earlier this year, to help balance the council's books.

However, following criticism from campaigners about the decision, the Huddersfield Giants owner pulled out of the sale.

Expressions of interest have been received from local property consultants Stewart and Beverly Charnock-Bates, Roxor Group owner Tony Wood and a consortium of Halifax Panthers directors.

Stewart and Beverly Charnock-Bates have proposed a community asset transfer to a not-for-profit organisation with professional direction.

Roxor chief Wood proposed establishing a community trust to operate the stadium.

Meanwhile, the Halifax Panthers directors suggested a collaboration with other groups and key stakeholders to run the stadium...

At a meeting on Monday, councillors were told a task group had been set up, led by Mike Payne, cabinet member for corporate services...

Payne said'We want to reassure supporters that there are no plans for the council to withdraw from its operation of the stadium.

'However, it clearly isn't viable for the current level of expenditure to continue without adequate resourcing.

'The Shay is now operating without a defined budget which is contributing towards a wider council overspend.'" ident" a positive solution would be found.

Eastleigh "announce the arrival of defender Nick Akoto, who joins the Spitfires on a permanent deal

The 27-year-old right back joins us following his exit from Burton Albion. Akoto spent the last two seasons with the Brewers, making 33 appearances for them in that time.

Prior to his time at Burton, Akoto spent several years playing in America... with a two year stint at Tennessee Wesleyan University. He scored 5 goals and grabbed 8 assists in his 30 appearances there.

He transferred to Keiser University in 2021... Following his college career, Akoto signed with USL League One side, South Georgia Tormenta...

In his youth career, Akoto was part of AFC Wimbledon’s under-18 side. He left the London club in the summer of 2017".

Hartlepool United "confirm that Kian Foreman has joined National League North side Hebburn Town on loan until January 2027.

The temporary move has been agreed to support the 18-year-old’s continued development through regular senior first-team football... Foreman made his senior debut as a second-half substitute in the Isuzu FA Trophy tie against Tamworth in December 2024 before making his National League debut away to Rochdale in April 2025.

The young forward enjoyed a successful loan spell with Hebburn Town during the 2025/26 Northern Premier League campaign...

Following his recall by Pools, Foreman concluded the campaign with a further loan spell at National League North side Spennymoor Town...

Foreman will remain eligible to represent Hartlepool United in National League Cup fixtures during his loan spell.

Lee Clark, First Team Head Coach at Hartlepool United, said 'I’ve been really impressed with Kian since the first day of pre-season... We’ll be keeping a close eye on his progress throughout the loan and, with the agreement we’ve put in place, he’ll also be available to play for us in the National League Cup, so he’ll remain an important part of our plans.'”

14 July 2026

ALTY'S SECOND PRE-SEASON GAME

Following their 2-2 draw at Colwyn Bay last Saturday, Altrincham make a much shorter journey to face Wythenshawe Town tonight (Tuesday at 7.45pm).

Town will start 2026-27 five rungs below Altrincham following relegation last season.

Alty boss Neil Gibson indicated that he would start the game with the second-half eleven which featured at Colwyn Bay with the second-half of this match being played by the eleven who kicked off at Colwyn Bay.

ALTY SQUAD NUMBERS

At Colwyn Bay on Saturday, Altrincham's players wore their new yellow and black away kit.

This bore the new squad numbers for 2026-27 and these were as follows...

1. Owen Evans (right) 2. Lewis Banks, 3. Eddy Jones, 4. Jack Hinchy, 5. Jake Cooper, 6. Charlie Olson, 7. Otis Khan, 8. Liam Humbles, 9. Kristian Dennis, 10. Aidan Barlow, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 12. Kian Breckin, 14. Matty Kosylo, 15. Sam Taylor, 17. Lucas Weaver, 20 Kahrel Reddin, 22. Tom Crawford, 23. Charlie Kirk, 24. Sam Barnes, 25 Joel Bailey, 26. Anthony Forde, 27 Louie Fallon.

22 of the 25-man squad were in action at Llanelian Road. So, three players were not involved on Saturday; last season they bore the following numbers:

16. Remi Raymond, 18. Owen German, 41. Max Beddow.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Our cricket correspondent, Ian Wilkinson, informs us that NATHAN WATERSTON has been playing in a three-day NCCA championship match for Cumbria against Hertfordshire . The former Alty striker scored 51 on day 1 of the match on Sunday.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Worthing report that "In response to feedback from supporters and clubs, DAZN and the National League announced every live pick until the end of January, to give supporters ample time to prepare for the changes in kick-off and how that may affect travel arrangements.

As things stand, over 30 of the Reds’ National League matches will be broadcasted live. During international breaks, the 3pm Blackout Rule that prevents matches that kick off at that specific time slot on a Saturday afternoon doesn’t apply. The first two matchweeks fall before the start of the Premier League campaign and are being treated as an international break window would.

As such, our tantalising curtain raiser away to Carlisle United on Saturday 8 August and our first ever home match in the National League against Forest Green Rovers on the following Saturday will be both be available to watch live.

Our second contest of the campaign at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium against Wealdstone on Saturday 22 August has been moved to a 12:30pm kick-off to accommodate broadcast, while our following games over the Bank Holiday weekend away to Tamworth (Friday 28 August (19:45pm KO) and at home to Boreham Wood on the following Monday (3pm KO) will also be available to watch on DAZN...

Over the festive period, Adam Hinshelwood’s side have four successive matches broadcasted live, concluding with Monday 28 December’s hosting of Aldershot Town at Woodside Road.

All fixtures and kick-off timings are subject to change. Selections for the second half of the season will be confirmed in due course".

Eastleigh "announce the arrival of attacking midfielder Max Dickov, who joins the Spitfires on a permanent deal.

The 24-year-old signs for the club following a period on trial with the Spitfires. He started in Friday’s friendly against Horsham.

Last season, Dickov started out with Mansfield Town. He made 14 League One appearances for them in the first half of the season before being loaned out to Tranmere Rovers for the remainder of the campaign.

Before that, Dickov was with Brentford’s B team. He spent three seasons there and was a part of their 2022/23 Premier League Cup-winning side.

Dickov’s youth career was spent with Manchester City and Oldham Athletic. He was capped by England schoolboys".

Footnote: Max is the son of former Manchester City player Paul Dickov.

Forest Green Rovers "invite supporters to our third Fan Engagement Day during the summer holidays, a unique fan-focused event to be held at The New Lawn on Tuesday 4 August 2026.

With open training beginning at 10:30 am, we will also be hosting a Fans’ Forum on the evening of 4 August, with doors opening at 6:00 pm. This is a free, ticketed event...

Supporters can meet the players and the management team in the Carol Embrey suite for photos and autographs...

The FGR Community will be running Summer Holiday Camps on the School Pitch throughout August, offering a great option for kids (and parents!) for the summer holidays alongside the Open Training Session...

Have your say on the Forest Green Rovers menu by sampling a selection of dishes and sharing your feedback. Tell us what you'd like to see on future matchday menus, including vegan sausage rolls, steak bakes and more!"

Hartlepool United "will compete in the National League Cup for the first time this season, with Manager Lee Clark believing the competition will provide a vital stepping stone for the Club’s emerging young talent.

Speaking to BBC Radio Tees, Lee Clark explained that the introduction of an Under-21 side and a full-time Loans Manager made entering the competition a natural next step as the Club continues to strengthen its player development pathway...

Said Clark... 'It’s also an opportunity for our fans to see the next generation and local lads representing the Club. I’m big on giving young players' opportunities, so we felt it would defeat the objective of putting those building blocks in place if we didn’t take up this opportunity...

'We’ve had a big turnover of players this summer, but you can’t keep doing that every year. You want a solid squad with a strong core, and if you’ve got academy players coming through who can help the first team, that’s hugely beneficial. It means you’re not constantly having to recruit...

'The league, the FA Cup and the FA Trophy are competitions we’ll go into with our strongest possible team to try and win every game,' he said....

While Hartlepool are still looking to add to the squad before the season begins... 'I’m pleased we’ve not had to rely on the loan market because all of these players are ours. We could have filled the squad quickly, but they wouldn’t necessarily have been the right fit. We’ve stayed patient to get the right characters and the right identity.'”

Southend United "confirm that Meet the Shrimpers will take place at Roots Hall Stadium on Monday, July 27, giving supporters the chance to get closer to the first-team squad ahead of the new season.

The event was originally planned as a large-scale community celebration at a local park. Despite the club having submitted the application several months in advance, the required event licence was not received in sufficient time for us to safely organise an event of that scale.

Rather than cancel the occasion altogether, the Club has worked hard to create an enjoyable alternative at Roots Hall, ensuring supporters can still meet the players and enjoy an afternoon at their football club.

The day will begin with an open training session on the pitch... Following training, players and coaching staff will make their way into the Shrimpers Bar for an extensive signing and photo session, giving supporters of all ages the opportunity to meet the squad.

There will be plenty happening throughout the afternoon, with the FA Trophy on display in the Far Post Bar for supporters to have their photographs taken with, while the Club Shop will be open".

Yeovil Town report that "Ahead of our upcoming pre-season home fixtures, we would like to inform supporters that we will be trialling a cashless fanzone for our fixtures against Cardiff City U21s and Newport County.

Over the summer, we have carried out extensive work to improve WiFi connectivity across the stadium and surrounding facilities, helping to provide a more reliable service for supporters on matchdays.

We appreciate that some supporters may have questions about the decision to move towards a cashless system. Over the course of last season, we closely monitored payment methods used within the fanzone and have made this decision as part of our ongoing efforts to streamline matchday services and improve the overall supporter experience.

The trial will allow us to assess how a cashless environment works in practice ahead of the new season. We will continue to listen to supporter feedback throughout this process and review the outcomes of the trial",

13 July 2026

NEIL HAPPY WITH OPENING FIXTURE

Brian Flynn spoke to Neil Gibson following Altrincham's 2-2 draw with Colwyn Bay on Saturday. Neil started by pointing out that nine of the Bay team had played for him previously!

The Alty boss was "Really pleased with the way we went about it". However, he was a little disappointed with conceding the opening goal, which he judged to be "a little bit soft".

As for individuals, Neil felt that Charlie Kirk "looked really good, really sharp".

As for the absence of trialists, Neil stated that he likes to have his squad assembled by this stage of pre-season so that he can work on formations and tactics with a settled group.

He indicated that for Tuesday's fixture at Wythenshawe Town he will reverse the elevens so that those who finished the game in North Wales will start the match at Ericstan Park, and vice versa in the second half.

However, at Wythenshawe he will "play a different shape", probably 4-3-3".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on the USL Cup in which SAM ROSCOE was an unused substitute for Corpus Christi, who took a 78th minute lead against visitors One Knoxville, only to concede a 94th minute equaliser.

To make matters worse they lost the resulting shootout 2-4. They are now next to bottom of the 6-team group.

BAY WATCH

Altrincham's opponents last Saturday, Colwyn Bay report on the 2-2 draw at Llanelian Road.

"An 88th minute penalty by Jordan Davies earned the Seagulls a draw in an end to end 2-2 draw against National League side Altrincham...

The Bay took an early lead when Adam Davies scored his third goal in three games from a free kick after five minutes, but Altrincham equalised seven minutes later with Anthony Forde curling home a free kick from 20 yards.

Sol Forde had a header superbly saved by the Altrincham keeper and Aeron Edwards sent a glancing header just over the bar from another set piece before half-time. P> A ball across the Bay box saw Jimmy Knowles [left] drive a shot past Mark Halstead to put the visitors 2-1 ahead on 58 minutes.

A worry for Bay was Alex Downes having to come off injured midway through the half and it needed a great save by Halstead to prevent Tom Crawford scoring a third goal for Altrincham, managed by Neil Gibson. Then, with two minutes of normal time left, Bay were awarded the penalty for handball from a Nathan Peate header and Jordan Davies made no mistake from the spot".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

At Boston United "chairman David Newton has provided the following update and information...

The South Stand and concourse will unfortunately not be ready for the first fixture of the season. It is hoped that works will be complet... around the end of August...
Additional walkways have now been introduced into the North Stand to allow easier access in and out of the terraced areas
A large screen (scoreboard) has been installed, which has been kindly sponsored by Peter Prime of Prime
We will be participating in the National League Cup again for the coming season. This has a number of benefits:
- Fringe players, players coming back from injury and under-23s players can gain valuable match time.
- It is a great opportunity to see the Premier League stars of the future (and some existing Premier League players) here at the Jakemans Community Stadium.
- It gives us the opportunity to build relationships with the visiting Premier League clubs, where hopefully we can look to explore loans or other ways of working together.
- It supports the Premier League who contribute £1 million each season to the National League Cup – and remain extremely committed to it.
- It has provided some excellent games here at the Jakemans Community Stadium, which have been well supported and, of course, has provided vital income into the club. That income can rise to around £100,000 if we progress in the competition
Under a new National League directive, under-14s MUST now be accompanied by a responsible adult to all games...
We have changed kit suppliers from Umbro to New Balance.
We are delighted to confirm that 890 season tickets have been sold so far
We are delighted with the signings that we have made. Work continues to fill the final flew slots"

At Sutton United "Chris Agutter was pleased with the opening outing of Sutton United’s pre-season campaign, believing [the] 2-2 draw with AFC Totton provided valuable minutes, important learning opportunities and, most importantly, no serious injuries.

The U’s twice took the lead in an eventful first friendly of the summer, with the contest also featuring a first half red card and several debut appearances for the club’s new signings.

The biggest concern of the afternoon came when defender Jordan Moore-Taylor was forced off following a heavy challenge, but Agutter has provided a positive update on the former Forest Green Rovers defender, along with Will Nightingale, who was replaced just minutes after coming on in the second half...

'It was a naughty challenge, really. In my opinion, it was the worst tackle in the whole game, but Jordan’s fine... As for Nightingale, we just felt it was an unnecessary risk,' Agutter explained...

'I thought it [the match] served its purpose,' he said... 'We mixed the teams between the two halves, with a nice blend of experienced senior players, younger lads looking to impress and trialists. There were definitely some positive bits. With ten men for over an hour, I thought we defended really well.

'We probably looked most vulnerable from set-pieces, so our set-piece coach will probably get a bit of stick from me'...

Besart Topallaj’s dismissal midway through the first half then forced Sutton to play with ten men for over an hour, altering the manager’s original plans but providing an unexpected test...

The afternoon also offered supporters a first opportunity to see many of Sutton’s summer recruits in action, alongside several academy players and trialists...

The manager revealed the squad had already completed almost 40 kilometres of running on the training pitch before the opening friendly".

12 July 2026

COLWYN BAY 2-2 ALTRINCHAM

Altrincham fielded a different eleven in each half of this pre-season friendly at Llanelian Road's Blue Turtle Arena.

The hosts took an early lead through Jordan Davies (5 mins) from a freekick.

It was also directly from a freekick that Anthony Forde (left) equalised for Alty six minutes later, netting from the edge of the "D" in a central position.

Alty's new team for the second half made it 2-1 in the 58th minute when Jimmy Knowles converted with a tap-in from a Kirk cross.

The referee awarded the Bay a late penalty for handball which Davies converted to leave the game a draw (88 mins).

Altrincham (First Half): 1. Owen Evans, 2. Lewis Banks (c), 3. Eddy Jones, 5. Jake Cooper, 25. Joel Bailey, 26.Anthony Forde, 7. Otis Khan, 8. Liam Humbles, 9. Kristian Dennis, 10. Aidan Barlow, 17. Lucas Weaver

Altrincham (Second Half): 27. Louie Fallon, 14. Matty Kosylo, 6. Charlie Olson, 24. Sam Barnes, 12. Kian Breckin, 22. Tom Crawford (c), 4. Jack Hinchy, 20. Kahrel Reddin, 23. Charlie Kirk, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 15. Sam Taylor.

Colwyn Bay: 1. Mark Halstead, 6. Sol Forde, 21. Ryan Astles, 5. Lewis Sirrell, 12. Declan Poole, 19. Matty Hill, 23. Aaron Edwards, 8. Callum Bratley, 11. Jordan Davies, 9. Adam Davies, 10. Louis Robles. Subs: 13. Seb Osment, 2. Dan Roberts, 4. Nathan Peate, 3. Sam Hart, 20. Aron Williams, 14. Uniss Kargbo, 12. Issa Kargbo, 24. George Hughes, 25. Alex Downes, 7. Jack Kenney

Brief match report here..

NEXT: WYTHENSHAWE TOWN

Altrincham's next pre-season game is away to Wythenshawe Town, at their Ericstan Park home, on Tuesday night (7.45pm). That venue was also, for several years, the home ground for the late George Heslop's Altrincham FC Youth team.

This will be Town's fourth pre-season game of 2026, all of which have been home matches. After beating New Mills 2-0, they have faced Lower Breck and near neighbours Wythenshawe.

They have been managed since May 2026 by ex-Robins striker ASTLEY MULHOLLAND (right) and former St Ambrose pupil Domain Rouse who was on Bury's books amongst his other clubs.

Following three top-three finishes in the NW Counties Premier, Town were promoted to Division One West of the Northern Premier League in 2024, finishing 19th in 2024-25 and then 20th of the 22 clubs last season.

That meant relegation and a switch of leagues to the Midland League Premier Division for next season. So they will be competing at Step 5 of the non-league pyramid in 2026-27.

CHARLIE KIRK SIGNS

Shortly before their opening friendly at Colwyn Bay, Altrincham FC revealed that "Winger Charlie Kirk [left] has signed a new contract with the Robins...

The 28-year-old former Crewe Alexandra and Charlton Athletic man, who played 40 times for the Robins in 2025/26, becomes the final player from Alty's retained list to commit to staying at The J.Davidson Stadium ahead of the new season...

Charlie said... 'I really enjoyed my first season at the club, we've got a great group of lads here and I'm looking to kick on in pre-season to be ready to go in August.'"

Manager Neil Gibson [added]... 'I believe he'll be a real asset to the squad.

'Charlie has an excellent character and he's someone who sets really high standards as a senior pro within the squad and I'm looking forward to working with him again.'"

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports...

South Korea K League 2 : Visitors Seongnam had led twice at Daegu, but were down to 10 men when the hosts brought MARCUS DACKERS off the bench after 87 minutes - and 3 minutes later he provided the assist as they won 3-2.

Friendly matches : MICHAEL GYASI scored the clincher for Bedford Town, who beat visitors Berkhamsted 2-0.

TYLOR GOLDEN came on for the second half to make his Boreham Wood debut, with his side 1-0 up against Watford. The visitors equalised, but Wood went on to win 2-1.

Newport County's DAN SASSI (right) was withdrawn just before the hour, hosts Gloucester City having just equalised through ASHLEY HEMMINGS, and were soon 2-1 down. Their hopes of recovery were then quickly hampered by one of their trialists being sent off. There were no further goals.

Yeovil Town were 1-3 up at the break at Melksham Town, and brought on MATT GOULD and JACK KINGDON for the second half. They went on to add a 4th goal.

Barrow led 2-0 at half time against visitors Workington, and brought on OLLY CRANKSHAW, ISAAC MARRIOTT, and KENNEDY DIGIE for what turned out to be a goalless second half.

KEVIN ELLISON started for Vauxhall Motors, who entertained PHIL PARKINSON'S Chester. The Seals had TOM PEERS and BILLY WATERS in their lineup, and Tom opened the scoring after just 5 minutes. All of those players came off at half time, and Chester went on to win 0-2.

Both JEFF KING and ALEX NEWBY started for York City, who beat visitors Barnsley 2-1.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

"Kyle Smith has joined Wealdstone FC for a third spell at The Vale, the Stones are delighted to confirm.

And this time it'll be on a permanent contract - after two previous stints on loan from Millwall, both of which coming during the 2023/24 season.

'We've been impressed not just by his athleticism while he's been training with us, but just as much his attitude of wanting to be here; to play for the club...'

After a month at Braintree, he spent the remainder of 2025/26 as a mainstay in a Tonbridge Angels side which achieved a comfortable mid-table finish in the Enterprise National League South"

Wealdstone is also "pleased to confirm the signing of midfielder Jayden Harris.

The 26-year-old recently brought to an end a two-year spell with fellow Enterprise National League club Sutton United, which included over 40 appearances last season.

Gary Waddock, Wealdstone manager, said... 'It's great to get someone of Jayden's experience over the line'...

A product of Fulham's academy set-up, Harris joined Aldershot Town in summer 2021 after a brief loan spell at Woking.

His form earned a move to Carlisle United the following year, and then another loan at Eastleigh during season 2023/24...

Added the Stones' boss, 'We'll have a group with more younger players scattered around, so Jayden's extra experience will prove key'">

Heading the other way, West London Sport reports that "Defender Deon Woodman has joined League One club Bromley from Wealdstone.

Woodman, 23, was at QPR before joining the Stones in 2024, having previously been at the club on loan... He has moved for an undisclosed fee.

Wealdstone said they had 'reluctantly' accepted Bromley’s offer".

Carlisle United "made it back-to-back wins to start pre-season after a 3-2 win in a behind-closed-doors friendly with Motherwell.

Rob Elliot's side came back from behind to secure victory, with REGAN LINNEY, David Ajiboye and Seb Mason getting on the scoresheet.

He said 'It was a really good game and exactly what we wanted. Another 45 minutes into two different teams and I thought the first group, against what was probably their strongest side, were excellent. We finished that half 1-1, but our pressing was outstanding and we probably could have scored another one or two.

'The second half was excellent as well. We introduced a few academy lads and I thought we were on top for long periods. We got the goals and probably could have added more'...

Speaking on United's performance, in particular signs of high-intensity pressing, United's Head Coach said 'That's exactly how we want to play. I'll be honest, we're nowhere near where we need to be yet, but that's just because we've only been together for two weeks...

He said 'Reegs [Regan Linney] was excellent again. He caused all sorts of problems'. Linney was substituted on 30 minutes after a whack to his right knee in United's half.

'Regan took a knock to his knee, but it's just a whack, so he should be fine'">

11 July 2026

TODAY: COLWYN BAY

Altrincham go into today (Saturday)'s first friendly of the season at Colwyn Bay likely to face temperatures arpund 27C.

One issue that may be resolved at Llanelian Road is the status of Charlie Kirk, the only squad member from last season who has neither been reported as leaving nor as signing a new contract for the club.

As it stands the Altrincham squad comprises 24 players (excluding Kirk).

Goalkeepers: Owen Evans, Louie Fallon, Max Beddow
Defenders: Lewis Banks, Sam Barnes, Jake Cooper, Matty Kosylo, Joel Bailey, Anthony Forde, Charlie Olson, Eddy Jones
Midfielders: Otis Khan, Kian Breckin, Remi Raymond, Owen German, Tom Crawford, Aidan Barlow, Jack Hinchy, Liam Humbles
Forwards: Jimmy Knowles, Kahrel Reddin, Lucas Weaver, Kristian Dennis, Sam Taylor

NEIL GIBSON INTERVIEW

George Allen has conducted a lengthy interview with Neil Gibson for Alty TV to discuss summer developments with the squad composition, the progress made in training and the Alty Manager's plans for the forthcoming friendlies. He suggested that two more friendlies may yet be arranged

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports:

NPL Victoria : CONNOR HAMPSON played a full part in a clean sheet for Oakleigh Cannons as they made it 15 league games undefeated. Visitors and old rivals Avondale needed to win to keep their hopes of a table topping finish alive, but were beaten 2-0.

There was further good news for Cannons, as their closest rivals Hume City, who host them next Saturday, were beaten 2-1 at Preston Lions. Cannons are 4 points clear, and have a substantial lead over the rest of the teams....

Irish Premier Division : BARRY BAGGLEY was called into action for St.Patrick's after only 21 minutes as they visited his previous club, Waterford. After trailing to their hosts at the interval, they eventually forced a 1-1 draw with a 95th minute penalty.

Friendly : TYRESE SINCLAIR made his Livingston debut in their home game against Hearts, scoring their second goal in a 2-1 win, and playing the full game - one of only 4 Livingston players to do so.

OPENING DAY FIXTURES

As reported on Friday, the National League has issued its 2026=27 fixtures. In Altrincham's case the fixtures can be seen here .

The National League adds that "For many, it’s all about the opening day - and if the new season can start with three precious points to end the wait...

The fixture compilers have come up with an eye-catching Matchweek 1 and here are some of the stand-out games in all three divisions.

Welcome to the National League, Worthing! Your first mission - how about a trip to Carlisle United?

It’s as tougher a start as Adam Hinshelwood could have asked for as the Enterprise National League South champions head to Cumbria. The two play-off winners meet with Hornchurch and Kidderminster Harriers knowing they have a great chance to put some early points on the board.

Perhaps the fixture of the opening weekend in at Hartlepool United, where Lee Clark’s well-tipped team entertain Barrow who see now reasons why they can’t claim back an EFL place at the first attempt.

The other side relegated back with us are Harrogate Town. They’ll be happy with a home game as they return for the first time in six years. Solihull Moors pay a visit.

Forest Green Rovers start at home against a much-changed FC Halifax Town as Boreham Wood’s quest to right their Wembley wrongs begins against Tamworth, who could be contenders after their summer takeover. New Southend United manager Kieron Dyer gets going at Altrincham.

Opening day fixtures:

AFC Fylde v Wealdstone
Altrincham v Southend United
Boreham Wood v Tamworth
Boston United v Aldershot Town
Carlisle United v Worthing
Eastleigh v Gateshead
Forest Green Rovers v FC Halifax Town
Harrogate Town v Solihull Moors
Hartlepool United v Barrow
Hornchurch v Kidderminster Harriers
Scunthorpe United v Yeovil Town
Woking v Sutton United

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Stafford Rangers "are delighted to announce the signing of central midfielder Tom Tonks [from Tamworth].

Fans will have fond memories of “Tonksy” after his previous stint at the club where he helped us win the Staffordshire Senior Cup, and wowed fans with his trademark set-pieces.

Since then he’s enjoyed a fruitful few years, winning promotion to the National League with Tamworth, as well as gaining national recognition for his part in The Lambs FA Cup run that ended against Tottenham Hotspur in the third round.

Following his departure from Tamworth, he became a free agent and manager Graham Deakin worked tirelessly in order to get the deal done, and welcome back the fans favourite to the Stan Robinson Stadium...

Tonks rejoins the side having already made 93 appearances for the club, scoring 24 goals during that time".

Harrogate Town announces that "Chanse Headman has completed a transfer to League One outfit Bromley for an undisclosed fee.

The 21-year-old defender signed for Town from Brentford in January, making 16 appearances in total for the club and scoring twice in our victory at Tranmere Rovers.

We would like to thank Chanse for his efforts while at the club and wish him good luck for the future.

At Yeovil Town "We wanted to provide supporters with an update on Joe Haigh following his arrival at Yeovil Town, which was announced a couple of weeks ago.

Joe joined the club after attracting significant interest from a number of sides, including clubs as high as League One, and we are delighted to have secured the services of such a promising young player.

At the time of signing, we were aware that Joe was due to undergo minor ankle surgery, and this was fully considered throughout the recruitment process.

With the support of our Head of Sports Science, Glenn Shepherd, Joe will now follow a carefully managed recovery programme throughout pre-season. We are confident in Joe’s ability and potential, and look forward to seeing him return to action shortly after the conclusion of pre-season and make his mark in a Yeovil Town shirt".

10 July 2026

HOME COMFORTS FOR ALTY?

Altrincham kick off the league season on 8 August with yet another home fixture! Southend United will be the visitors, the seventh successive season that Alty have met a south of England team from more than 200 miles away on the opening day of a season.

It will also be the eleventh of the last twelve seasons in which the opening-day fixture for Altrincham will have been played at Moss Lane.

Right: Alty secured a rare opening-day win last year and here we see Kahrel Reddin celebrating his goal in a 3-2 win over Aldershot Town.

However, the historical generosity of the fixture computer has not been matched by results as, before winning in 2024, Alty had failed to win any of their previous ELEVEN home opening-day fixtures between 2007 and 2023.

A feature of the 2026-27 season is the increased number of Saturday lunchtime fixtures.

No fewer than six of Altrincham's Saturday matches have been moved from 3pm, with five assigned to 12.30pm and one to a 5.30pm kick off. Three of these affected Saturday games are home fixtures.

With eleven evening (7.45pm) kick-offs, that leaves just 29 of the season's 46 matches at 3pm.

Of those eleven 7.45pm kick-offs, two are on Fridays and two are on Wednsdays, the rest are on Tuesdays. The home match with Hartlepool is shown by the National League as Wednesday 15th September, but Wednesday is the 16th.

The full list of fixtures for Altrincham is here.

ALTY AWAY KIT REVEALED

Altrincham FC has revealed its "away kit for the 2026/27 season, expertly modelled by club captains Tom Crawford and Nat Lowe.

Manufactured by partners PUMA, the shirt features dryCELL moisture wicking technology to help keep you cool and comfortable, while the lightweight performance fabric makes it ideal for both matchdays and everyday wear. A premium woven club crest completes the look with a high quality finish.

A full complement of kit partners also feature - with long-time backers AO and McHale & Co. Solicitors joined by the recently announced Banks & Lloyd and CEG.

Right: The 2026-27 away kit is reminiscent of that worn on the road in the 1999-2000 season as shown in the accompanying photo of Mick Carmody and Leroy Chambers.

The kit will make its on-field debut this weekend when Neil Gibson's squad head for North Wales to take on Colwyn Bay in the men's first pre-season friendly of the summer.

As a club we're committed to ensuring our all-new Puma shirts are as affordable as possible for supporters. We've taken the decision to freeze prices on junior shirts at £42, with adult shirts priced at £49.99.

Away shirts are now on sale online here OR you can grab one in person at The J.Davidson Stadium".

Follow the above link for details of opening times. The video posted here by Alty on "X" shows the new kit in detail.

ALTY COLLAR NEW "BACK OF SHIRT SPONSOR"

Altrincham FC "announce Banks & Lloyd as our newest club partners ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The freight and shipping experts have come on board at The J.Davidson Stadium as the back-of-shirt sponsors for our soon-to-be revealed, all-new 2026/27 Puma home and away kits.

Banks & Lloyd have a vision to help keep the world turning... You’d be surprised how much effort may have gone into getting even the most simplest of everyday items to where they need to be.

Right: Not only will Alty have a new shirt for the coming season but their "back of shirt" sponsor will change from "worldpay" to "Banks & Lloyd".

This is where Banks & Lloyd's expertise shines. Tell them where your goods need to go, anywhere in the world, whether it's a single pallet or a large-volume container shipment crossing continents, and they'll handle everything from there...

Ed Banks, Banks & Lloyd General Manager, is enthusiastic about the new partnership 'Supporting local organisations has always been important to us at Banks & Lloyd, so partnering with Altrincham FC felt like a natural fit. As someone who grew up in Altrincham, and with Daria and I both deeply invested in the local community through our business, we're proud to be involved with a club that means so much to so many people...

It's a genuine community club, a great day out, and an organisation with real ambition both on and off the pitch'.

Alty's Commercial Manager, Geraldine Jackson, is excited to welcome our newest club partner 'We are thrilled to welcome Banks & Lloyd as an official club partner of Altrincham FC and to have them join us as the back-of-shirt sponsor across our men's first team, women's setup and academy for the 2026/27 season'...

For more information on our newest partners head for the Banks & Lloyd website >here.

ALTY'S "QUADRUPLE BREAKTHROUGH"

In the Sale & Altrincham Messenger, John Edwards writes that "Altrincham have completed a spectacular quadruple breakthrough in the transfer market by welcoming four new faces to The J.Davidson Stadium, including a goalkeeper to replace departing crowd favourite Ethan Ross.

Experienced keeper Owen Evans is the man tasked with trying to fill Ross' boots after signing from Barnet, along with former Tranmere Rovers striker Kristian Dennis and midfielders Liam Humbles and Jack Hinchy.

Evans's arrival coincided with the announcement Alty fans were dreading, as the club confirmed that ex-Stockport County stopper Ross, voted supporters' player of the year two seasons running, would be leaving after his contract expired.

The 29-year-old [has been] out of action since suffering a knee ligament injury in February last year".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

A fifth summer signing has been announced by Eastleigh with "the arrival of defender Ben Drake, who joins the Spitfires on a permanent deal.

The 20-year-old joins the Spitfires following a two-year spell with Millwall. While in South London, he spent the majority of his time on their U-21s’ side...

Prior to his time at the Den, Drake completed a scholarship with Sheffield United before signing a pro contract with them in 2023.

Last season, Drake joined Braintree Town on loan and made 22 National League appearances for them during his time in Essex.

Upon joining the Spitfires, Drake said, 'As soon as I spoke to the gaffer, I wasn’t going anywhere else'".

At the other end of the country, Barrow announce that "The Barrow 125 Team are delighted to invite you to the launch of the Barrow 125 Exhibition! This is the start of a year long serious of events, celebrating a hundred and twenty-five years of Barrow AFC and much, much more.

The launch takes place at The Dock Museum on Friday 17th July, between 4.30 and 6.30.

The history of Barrow AFC is the history of Barrow and vice versa. It's the year the first ever Royal Navy submarine, The Holland, was launched from our shipyard. Queen Victoria died, Marconi made the first transatlantic signal and the Boer War was taking place.

A shipyard foreman, engineer and inventor J.H Hind called a meeting at the Old Drill Hall in the Strand on July 16th 1901. Barrow AFC was born. We tell the story through the use of artefact, supporter voice, displays and mixed media".

Carlisle United whose suitably emblasoned team coach was again travelling along the A56 in Sale on Thursday morning, (it is based in Manchester), have announced their squad numbers for 2026-27: 1 - GABE BREEZE, 2 - KENTON RICHARDSON 3 - CAMERON HARPER 4 - HARVEY BUNKER5 5 - MORGAN FEENEY 6 - MIGUEL AZEEZ 7 - DAVID AJIBOYE 8 - CALLUM WHELAN 9 - GEORGIE KELLY 10 - REGAN LINNEY 11 - JUNIOR LUAMBA 12 - RYAN GALVIN 14 - ELLIOT EMBLETON 15 - BRAD NICHOLSON 16 - ARCHIE MAIR 18 - JACK ELLIS 20 - STEPHEN WEARNE 21 - HAYDEN ATKINSON 22 - JOSH WILLIAMS 23 - SEB MASON25 - JONAH LOWES 26 - BEVIS MUGABI 27 - AMARU SMITH 29 - LUKE ARMSTRONG 37 - HARVEY MACADAM .

Hornchurch "announce the signing of defender Ryan Inniss from Forest Green Rovers.

A former England U16 & 17 international, Ryan joins the club with a wealth of experience in the Football League, including Charlton Athletic where he made 64 appearances between 2020-2023.

Speaking on the move, manager Daryl McMahon said... 'We’ve met Ryan at the end of the season and have been working hard to get him in.

'We’ve managed to convince him that this project is one that he can buy into with the plan we have long term for the football club.

We’re over the moon that he’s decided to join us. He’s had offers from other places, but we’ve managed to convince him to join us.

'He comes with a wealth of experience at higher levels as well as this level. I’m sure he will fit right into the group and give us quality in terms defending, but also a fantastic leader on and off the pitch as well'">

Southend United's "Slavi Spasov has completed a transfer to Yeovil Town for an undisclosed fee.

Spasov joined the Shrimpers in June 2025 from Slough Town, and made his league debut as a late substitute against Hartlepool United in August.

The Bulgarian scored nine goals in 31 appearances for the Shrimpers, notably a stoppage-time winner over the Glovers at Huish Park in November".

Yeovil Town add that "The 24-year-old Bulgarian arrives at Huish Park after enjoying a successful 2025/26 campaign with Southend United, helping the Shrimpers lift the FA Trophy at Wembley Stadium while making 25 National League appearances and scoring seven goals...

Spasov made the move to Southend following an impressive spell with Slough Town during the 2024/25 season, where he finished as the club’s top goalscorer...

Spasov began his career in the academy at Oxford United, becoming the club’s youngest ever goalscorer when he found the net on his senior debut in an EFL Trophy tie at just 16 years of age. He would go on to gain valuable Football League experience before continuing his development in non league football.

A hardworking and intelligent forward, Spasov brings energy, movement and a strong work ethic to Billy Rowley’s attacking options".

9 July 2026

FIRST FRIENDLY: COLWYN BAY

Whilst Saturday's game at Llanelian Road will be Altrincham's first summer friendly of 2026, their hosts Colwyn Bay have already played three times this close season.

Right: Simon Richman contests the midfield at Colwyn Bay in March 2014, as Alty won 3-1.

The Welshmen kicked off their pre-season on Saturday, 27 June with a 4-0 away win at Bala Town.

Next, on Friday, 3 July they lost 1-2 at home to Denbigh Town before, on Monday, 6 July, they defeated Rhyl 3-2 at Llanelian Road.

A present-day link with Altrincham is that Colwyn Bay recently appointed Alty old boy DANNY McGOONA as their general manager. His son Max plays for the Bay.

Since Altrincham's regular encounters with Colwyn Bay in the Northern Premier League and Conference North, the Bay have returned to the Welsh football pyramid in which they have now competed for the past six seasons.

They play currently in the Cymru Premier, a division in which they finished fifth of the twelve member clubs last season.

The sides were last in the same league in 2013-14 when Alty got promoted from National North

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports firstly on Tuesday's Pre-season Friendlies, in which Buxton entertained top flight Portuguese side SC Braga, and lost 1-3. CONNOR KIRBY would almost certainly have played at least some of the match (see footnote below).

Footnote: Sporting Clube de Braga have a match summary.

Their fixture against Buxton was played behind closed doors and took place at St George's Park, near Burton on Trent, with the "Arsenalistas" (a nickname deriving from their red shirts with white sleeves which mimic those of England's Arsenal) fielding no fewer than 23 players during the match.

The best known of these players to English fans was the former Portugal international João Moutinho, the former Wolves and FC Porto player.

Phil adds that closer to home, Radcliffe travelled to Valley Road to face Flixton, who didn't have David Lynch in their squad. Radcliffe had no Old Boys in their starting lineup, but put out a fresh XI for the second half, including JORDAN HULME and BRAD JACKSON. They led 0-3 at that stage, and eventually won 3-5.

On Wednesday in a European Conference League Qualifier, captain JAMES JONES picked up a booking as JOHN DISNEY'S Connah's Quay Nomads were held to a goalless draw in the first leg by visitors FC Ballkani from Kosovo.

And in a Pre-season Friendly : Shaq Gwengwe, Newport County's new signing from Poole Town, scored a second half hat-trick as they strolled to a 0-5 victory at neighbours Newport City. DAN SASSI played the first half for them.

In other news, Teesside Live reports that "Former Middlesbrough favourite DUNCAN WATMORE has retired from professional football aged just 32...

Left: Duncan Watmore pictured on on 12 March 2012, the date of a 0-2 home defeat at Altrincham against Bishop's Stortford in the Blue Square Bet North, a game which was played in front of just 844 supporters.

Watmore had a number of offers to continue playing this summer but has decided to put his background business qualifications (he has a 1st Class Hons degree and MA with distinction) to good use.

In a statement, Watmore said... 'There have been amazing moments and difficult setbacks, and the injuries I experienced taught me resilience, perspective and discipline. Most importantly, I want to thank my family...

'I am now genuinely excited to begin a new chapter with PEAK4 as Head of Elite Performance & Business Development. PEAK4's mission to bring the principles of elite sport into business, leadership and workforce wellbeing is something I strongly believe in, and I look forward to helping build something meaningful'...

Watmore spent just over two years at Boro after joining on a free in November 2020...

He left in January 2023 after falling down the pecking order under Michael Carrick, joining Millwall as his contract entered its final six months...

[Watmore added,] 'I shall be forever grateful that Mr. Gibson, Neil Warnock and the wider club took a chance on me then. I have sought to repay them every day since'...

The winger suffered a number of injuries throughout his career. He burst on to the professional scene as a youngster with Sunderland in 2013, having been signed from non-league Altrincham, and played 71 times over a seven-year spell.

He also had a loan spell at Hibernian, as well as featuring 13 times for England U21s".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

FC Halifax Town "confirm the signing of striker Conor Carty, from League of Ireland Premier Division side Waterford.

A county level Gaelic footballer at Wicklow GAA, Carty spent time in the youth setups at Kilcullen AFC, Newbridge Town FC, and St Franics before moving to England to sign for Wolverhampton Wanderers’ academy...

In June 2022, Carty made the switch to Bolton Wanderers, joining up with their B team...

Whilst on the books at Bolton, Carty spent time on loan at Oldham Athletic and Gateshead in the National League, St Patrick’s Athletic, and Doncaster Rovers.

In January 2025, Carty returned to St Patrick’s Athletic, this time permanently. In August that year, the striker scored a penalty against Beşiktaş in the UEFA Conference League...

Carty was bought by Waterford for an undisclosed fee. He made 14 league appearances for the club in the first half of the season".

Well into double figures of summer signings, Aldershot Town report another new player in " Elijah Oladunjoye, who arrives having most recently played for Hanwell Town.

The 2004-born defender has thus far spent his young career earning experience at step three and four, turning out for Virginia Water, CB Hounslow, Marlow and the aforementioned Hanwell...

Eli... [was]playing as a trialist in the second-half of our pre-season curtain-raiser against Badshot Lea.

Garnering plenty of attention on Saturday for his eye-catching long throw technique, his now semi-viral instances of finding the back of the net from the touchline were not to distract from what was an incredibly impressive 45 minutes in open play...

Scott Davies has decided he has seen enough" and signed the player.

"Rob Elliot's Carlisle United squad got pre-season off to a strong start, comfortably defeating Queen of the South in a behind-closed-doors friendly.

Blues striker Georgie Kelly starred, finding the net four times in the first half...

Elliot said 'I think the things we wanted to get out of it were just to see some of the concepts we've been working on.

'We definitely wanted to see the energy and the fitness, the out-of-possession especially, I think, is really important. I think a few of the goals did come from out of possession, which is good, so the lads really bought into it'...

A forceful and often successful high press was a notable feature of the United performance, with a clear structure and high intensity hallmarks of the victory...

'I think we need to make intensity part of our identity because if we can do that then we'll always give ourselves the best opportunity to win games because sometimes, whether it's the conditions, the opposition, it's not always going to be free-flowing but if we're solid, we're strong, we're aggressive and we have that intensity then we can make ourselves even better of a unit.

'What we don't want is when they get the ball, we take a step back, we take two steps forward. I'm not talking about stupid gung-ho, but good play is good play, and I always say to the players, if teams are going to get through our press, get through our shape and structure, make it be through good play'".

Forest Green Rovers report the loan signing of Sydney Agina from Championship side, Stoke City

Sydney, an 18 year old, talented defender will be joining us until January 2027.

Agina made 5 appearances in the league for Stoke last season and also had an international call up to Kenya...

Robbie Savage said... 'Sydney is a real talent!... He had options to play at higher level but because we utilise the loan system so well and develop players the right way, clubs like Stoke trust us with their talented young players.

He’ll add even more quality to the RB position, along with Tre who we already know is a fantastic player'”.

Kidderminster Harriers boss "Paul Wotton says Harriers remain active in the signings market...

The Aggborough chief currently has 19 players at his disposal but is keen to see that figure bolstered further with even more National League experience...

He said, 'We’ve identified who we want and, if we can’t get them, we go down the list, and it’s an ongoing process.

'I’m happy with the business we’ve done so far, really happy. We need a couple more in because we need that bit of quality and that little bit of experience, National League experience, definitely....

'But you also need squad depth,' he added. 'It’s an unforgiving league and the schedule is unforgiving: Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday, Tuesday... We’re very, very close to a goalkeeper, so I’m pretty sure we’ll get that one done...

'It’s an honest, hard-working town with an honest, hard-working football team. It’s up to me to get a team on the pitch that reflects that, it’s very important that the team reflects the fans, reflects what we are and what we’re about'".

Wealdstone "confirms midfielder Nathan Tshikuna will not re-sign with the club for season 2026/27, after the two parties were unable to conclude a deal.

'It's worked out with some but not with others - and Nathan falls into that latter category,' explained Stones' chairman Rory Fitzgerald.

'Having retained a core of players from last season, we've already attracted significant interest from those looking to join our progressive club with a manager under whom players love to work'...

Tshikuna scored nine goals from 54 appearances in total last term, his single season at The Vale.

Woking's signing of Sean Adarkwa was reported yesterday and the Stones confirm that the forward is leaving Grosvenor Vale "after three years with the Stones.

Said Fitzgerald 'Despite best attempts negotiate a new deal with the player and his representatives, Sean decided his future lay elsewhere in the National League'.

Adarkwa played 39 times last season, scoring nine goals; part of the 20 he notched overall from 75 appearances...

'There'll be more playing trading activity now pre-season's got underway - that's the nature of the business we're in,' added the Stones' chairman.

'We're confident we'll be adding to our squad depth soon'".

8 July 2026

KOSYLO NOMINATED FOR AWARD

Altrincham FC are "delighted to confirm winger Matty Kosylo has been nominated for the PFA National League Community Champion award at the prestigious Northwest Football Awards.

The Community Champion category debuted at last year's awards and aims to recognise players who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment to their communities alongside their performances on the pitch throughout the 2025/26 season.

On receiving his nomination Matty said 'This nomination has come as a genuine surprise and I'm absolutely thrilled to be up for the award.

'It means an awful lot to be nominated and I'm looking forward to representing myself and the football club at the ceremony later this year. If all our fans could vote for me I would really appreciate it and then we'll see what happens on the night itself.'

Our longest serving player, and a huge fan favourite at The J.Davidson Stadium, Matty is up against Carlisle United's Callum Whelan, Morecambe's George Thomas and Rochdale's Sam Beckwith in a public vote, with the winner revealed at the awards ceremony in Manchester on Monday, November 2nd.

Huge congratulations to Matty on the nomination. Now if we could all get voting - click here and follow the steps".

GOLDEN JOINS BOREHAM WOOD

Like Isaac Marriott and Olly Crankshaw who, this summer, have decamped to a rival club at National League level, news comes from another National League club, Boreham Wood, of "the signing of defender Tylor Golden, who joins the Wood on a permanent basis following his departure from fellow Enterprise National League side Altrincham.

The 26-year-old (right) arrives at Meadow Park with a wealth of Football League and National League experience, adding pace, athleticism and versatility to Luke Garrard’s squad.

Born in Ipswich, Golden spent part of his childhood in the United States before returning to England and developing through the academies of Ipswich Town, Manchester City, Rochdale and Blackburn Rovers. He eventually joined Wigan Athletic in 2014...

Following loan spells with Droylsden and Nantwich Town, Golden made the move to Salford City, where he made his Football League debut in League Two...

After gaining further senior experience on loan with Notts County, Golden joined FC Halifax Town in 2022 before later making the switch to fellow National League side Altrincham", his local club.

Footnote: Golden made 86(+13) appearances and scored five goals during his two-year Altrincham career.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

In their squad list issued this week, Sutton United did not list a no.1, though the list did include two designated goalkeepers who have been assigned higher numbers.

The omission of a no.1 has become clear as Sutton United also "confirm the departure of Jack Sims, who will exit Gander Green Lane following the conclusion of his contract on 1st July.

Sims has enjoyed a successful couple of seasons with the U’s since arriving in 2024, becoming a regular fixture in the Sutton side whilst establishing himself as a terrific shot stopper in between the sticks.

Having initially joined from Braintree Town, whom he spent two seasons with after a brief stint at Welling United, he originally had to bide his time... before [he] finally nailed down the number one spot to end the 2024/25 campaign with 40 appearances in all competitions.

The former Canvey Island, Southend United and Blackpool product, who enjoyed loan spells at Skelmersdale United and Lancaster City prior to his permanent exit from Bloomfield Road, earned plaudits for his reflexes, reactions and penalty-saving ability as the U’s last line of defence, with his performances leading to him being named joint-Player of the Season alongside Lewis Simper.

Sims then followed this up with another string of superb displays in 2025/26".

Tamworth announce that "Dawn Group International have covered the cost for all fans attending this Saturday's pre-season friendly against Walton & Hersham.

As a new dawn shines at the home of Tamworth Football Club, we welcome the first visitors to The Lamb under new owners Dawn Group International (DGI).

On Saturday July 11th a new era begins at 3pm as Walton & Hersham take the trip to Staffordshire for our first home pre season game. To celebrate the beginning of this exciting chapter in Tamworth history, owners - DGI have covered all tickets for supporters wanting to attend this Saturday. You must register for a ticket.

We host the Surrey based side off the back of a 4-2 win away at Lichfield City FC on Saturday, which really impressed Tamworth boss, Andy Peaks.

Peaks said 'I was really pleased with the first pre-season game, it was great for 22 players to all get 45 minutes under their belt'...

Chairman, Abdullah Ashraf was also in attendance for our last outing on July 4th".

Woking "announce the signing of striker Sean Adarkwa from fellow Enterprise National League side Wealdstone on a one-year deal, with the option of a further year.

A product of West Ham United’s academy, Adarkwa arrives with valuable National League experience...

Director of Football Jody Brown said 'ean’s a player I’ve been looking at for a long time, maybe five years. He has the potential to be as good a number nine as any in the division, and Jermain’s expertise can really help him develop. With the two Joshes, Aiden, Wardy, Ashley, Liam and young Tom Dryer coming through, Sean’s addition gives us real depth, pace, size, creativity and goals'".

Off the field, Woking's "much-loved mascots, KC Kat and KC Kitten, are preparing to swap pitchside for the racetrack after accepting an invitation to take part in this year’s Epsom Mascot Derby on Bank Holiday Monday, 31st August.

The annual Mascot Derby brings together sporting mascots for a fun-filled race, all while raising vital funds for charity. This year’s event will support The Children’s Trust, helping children with complex health needs and disabilities, while Woking FC will also be encouraging supporters to donate in aid of Woking & Sam Beare Hospice, continuing the Club’s commitment to supporting causes within the local community".

In addition to the signing of Tylor Golden, Boreham Wood "confirm that Mangata Developments and Mangata CIS have extended their partnership with the club for a further three seasons, continuing their sponsorship of the Stadium, West Stand, and Dugouts...

But that’s not all...

Local businessman Kenny Gray Jackman has chosen to elevate his support of Boreham Wood FC and showcase his exciting new venture on the club’s most visible asset – the first-team shirt.

Boreham Wood FC are therefore delighted to announce that Backman will become our new Front and Back of Shirt Sponsor for the next three seasons".

The chairman of Worthing has addressed his club's supporters...

"Dear Rebels, What a season. National League South Champions – a first in the 140 year history of our Football Club..

I can’t believe it’s more than 10 weeks since the season ended and whilst getting some well-earned rest, the management and staff at the club have been working full on...

Stepping into the fifth tier of the English football pyramid for the first time in our history is a big moment – and we will go into it with our eyes wide open. This division is full of clubs with bigger crowds, bigger budgets, longer histories at this level, and grounds that have hosted EFL football in recent years. Nobody at Woodside Road is under any illusions about the size of the task.

But we have good reasons to be positive. The heart of a title-winning team. A manager with proven National League experience. A ground fit for purpose that has been transformed into a small stadium. A full-time player model that has now been fully embedded. Record season ticket sales backed by a large community that is getting right behind the Club. That is a strong platform and we will hit the ground running.

We will absolutely show a healthy respect for the challenge ahead, but we also go in with belief in our ability to meet it.

Early Bird Season Ticket sales were up a remarkable 50% on last year. ..

In Adam Hinshelwood, we have a manager who has navigated the National League from both ends of the table during his time at York City and that expertise is invaluable. Adam has importantly identified and secured the contracts of all the core players he wants from last season, and with first class support from Nathan and Shan, his new player recruitment process is well underway, with a clear focus on adding National League experience.

We have already welcomed Noor Husin, Ashley Nathaniel-George, Dom Hutchinson and Tyrique Clarke to the squad...

You may already have heard that we have reached an agreement in principle with Worthing Pavilion Bowls Club to acquire a strategically important section of their land. Not the whole site; the Bowls Club will continue to prosper alongside us at Woodside Road.

This land unlocks three things we have needed for some time: greater capacity, more operating space and more access into and out of the ground...

I did say it’s been a busy few months!

Barry Hunter".

Worthing also announce that "Our Men's First-Team Coaching staff has been confirmed... There has been a few alterations to Adam Hinshelwood’s backroom staff as we prepare to embark on a new era at the Sussex Transport Community Stadium.

Firstly, the Club can confirm that Jon Meeney will continue his role as Assistant Manager, working alongside ‘Hinsh’ for another season...

Goalkeeping Coach John Keeley will also remain at Woodside for another campaign...

We can confirm that First-Team Coach Cam Morrison has departed this summer and will not be returning for the 2026/27 campaign...

As previously announced, Shan Toms has moved into the role of Football General Manager, extending his time at the Club after two years as our Head of Football Operations".

Eastleigh "announce the arrival of midfielder Harry Sidwell, who joins the Spitfires on a season-long loan from AFC Wimbledon.

The 20-year-old midfielder joined AFC Wimbledon as an Under 14, and has remained with the London side ever since.

Over the last two seasons, Sidwell has gained plenty of first-team experience. He has had loan spells with Havant & Waterlooville, Enfield Town, Dagenham & Redbridge and most recently Dorking Wanderers.

He spent the first half of last season with Dagenham, playing 19 times for them, before joining Dorking Wanderers in January.

Whilst at Dorking, Sidwell made 18 appearances in the National League South and found the back of the net on three occasions".

7 July 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

The Manchester Evening News reports that "Former Altrincham footballer Ryan Colclough has been given a suspended prison sentence after carrying out what a judge described as a 'violent and grotesque' attack on a man in the toilets of a Derbyshire pub.

The 31-year-old ex-Chesterfield winger broke down in tears as he appeared via video link from HMP Nottingham while being told his 28-month prison sentence would be suspended for two years.

Colclough (left), a father, had travelled to the pub with his partner and another couple and had not consumed any alcohol before launching the assault, which left another father unconscious, DerbyshireLive reports.

In a victim impact statement, the man he attacked spoke about the devastating impact on his family, saying his nine-year-old son 'could not even look at him for two weeks' because of the extent of his facial injuries.

Sentencing Colclough to 28 months in prison, suspended for two years, at Derby Crown Court, Judge Jonathan Straw said 'I hope you now realise that on that night your behaviour in the toilets of the pub was violent, grotesque, uncalled for and unnecessary...

'You have an extremely short fuse and I hope you realise now that behaving in this way can have serious consequences? But having read and reflected on everything I am not going to keep you in custody any longer'...

The victim's impact statement to the court [stated]... 'I was a victim of a selfish attack by someone with an inflated ego due to his position as a professional footballer... The attack was carried out by someone who is used to people showing him adulation'".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Boston United "have bolstered their goalkeeping department by clinching the loan signing of Sheffield United stopper Luke Faxon.

The 21-year-old has joined the Pilgrims on loan until January 4 initially – and will compete with Louis Chadwick for the number one jersey at the Jakemans Community Stadium.

Faxon follows a well-trodden path of talent that has temporarily swapped Bramall Lane for Pilgrim Way over recent years – including the likes of Marcus Dewhurst, Kyron Gordon, Femi Seriki, Jean Leroy Belehouan and Owen Hampson."

Carlisle United have issued the club's latest statement to the Supporters' Group.

"First Team Staffing: A number of staff changes announced since end of season. Mark Hughes, Frankie McAvoy, Glenn Boden, Greg Stebbings and Sophie Birnie have left the club.

Rob Elliot has joined as First Team Head Coach. Louis Storey has joined as Assistant First Team Head Coach. Josh Lucas has joined as First Team Analyst...

Gavin Skelton remains as First Team Coach. Jack Cudworth remains as First Team Goalkeeping Coach... Martin Foyle left on Friday to join Port Vale as their Head of recruitment. Martin has a long existing relationship with Jon Brady.

Club, Marketing & Media... Media aims to stream as many friendly games as possible...

Kit launch shoots are our next priority...

Macron announced as kit supplier".

Harrogate Town invite us to "Meet the newest additions to the Town family!

Our new recruits, Bailey Hobson, Will McGowan, Ciaran McGuckin, Morgan Williams, Rory Watson and Lewis Payne, will all be present to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and pose for selfies at the official launch of our 2026/27 New Balance training kit".

Southend United "announce the signing of Vontae Daley-Campbell on a one-year contract.

The wing-back arrives in South Essex following the expiry of his contract at EFL League Two side Chesterfield.

It was with the Spireites that Daley-Campbell worked with Shrimpers Head Coach Kieron Dyer, and the 25-year-old is excited to link back up with the gaffer.

'“When he [Dyer] called me to tell me there could be a chance, I was all over it,' said Daley-Campbell...

He made his first-team debut for Leicester aged 19... After making nine Scottish Premiership appearances on loan at Dundee in 2022, Daley-Campbell had spells at Cardiff City and Peterborough United before arriving at Chesterfield in August 2024.

He made 35 appearances for the Spireites...

Dyer commented 'He has shown he can comfortably play in the league above, so I’m very pleased that he is here. He brings a great physical profile to the team, with a lot of pace, power, and energy.'”

Also Southend United "confirm the signing of Joe Duncan on a season-long loan from Bristol City.

The 19-year-old goalkeeper has progressed through the Bristol City academy... signing his first professional contract in 2023...

Across the last two seasons, Duncan has gained senior experience during loan spells at Tiverton Town and, more recently, Farnborough.

The young goalkeeper was also called up to the Jamaica Under-23 camp in March 2024".

Sutton United have issued their 2026-27 squad numbers:

, 2 Kwaku Donkor, 3 ⁠Besart Topallaj, ⁠4 Alex Kirk, 5 ⁠Will Nightingale, 6 ⁠Charlie Bell, ⁠7 Emmanuel Osadebe, 8 ⁠Jake Taylor, 9 ⁠Temi Babalola, 10 ⁠Charlie Carter, 11 ⁠Sam Folarin, 12 ⁠Dan Urpens, ⁠13 Chris Haigh (GK), 14 Omar Mussa, 15 ⁠Jordan Moore-Taylor, 16 ⁠Brandon Njoku, 17 ⁠Toby Byron, ⁠18 David Ogbonna, 20 ⁠Jermaine Francis, 21 Ronny Ruiz, 22 Adam Reeves, 24 James Fennelow, 25 ⁠Klevis Muca (GK)"

FC Halifax Town "confirm the signing of winger Zak Gilsenan, following his release by League Two side Grimsby Town.

Originally playing indoor football in Australia, Gilsenan joined Sorrento where he was scouted by Perth Glory. Following a two-week training tournament at Tottenham Hotspur, the winger was named player of the tournament and trialled with the Premier League side.

It was at Spurs the winger was scouted by Barcelona and joined the Spanish side in 2012. Gilsenan went onto captain the youth sides in La Masia before he moved to England in 2014, joining Liverpool’s academy.

At the age of 16, Gilsenan made the switch to Blackburn Rovers after injuries had disrupted his time at Liverpool...

In 2025, Gilsenan was released by Blackburn and signed for Grimsby on a two-year deal. Last season, the winger spent time on loan under John McGrath at Buxton...

Gilsenan has represented Australia at youth level as well as winning caps for the Republic of Ireland’s under 19s and 21s".

Yeovil Town "notes the statement issued by the Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust.

Community engagement sits at the very heart of our vision for Yeovil Town. Over the past year we have worked to bring the club and its community closer together, and we are building an ambitious, well-run community programme that reflects the identity and ambition of this club and the town it represents.

The club and the Trust had worked together under a formal service agreement, one the club was willing to continue to honour. When a shared way forward could not be agreed, we concluded that the club’s community work and effort are now best delivered directly by the club to honour the Yeovil Town brand ethos. That formal relationship will therefore come to a close, and we thank everyone who contributed to the Trust’s work over the years and wish them well...

We hold a simple belief: a club’s community work should serve the community and the club’s vision for it. Others are, of course, free to take their own direction, and we respect that. For Yeovil Town, community will always remain at the core of who we are, and we are committed to protecting and building on it."

6 July 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports on the USL League One in which Corpus Christi made it 13 points from the last 18 on offer with a 2-1 home win over Chattanooga Red Wolves, although SAM ROSCOE picked up a booking.

Their 6 match unbeaten run has seen them climb away from the wrong end of the table after picking up only 5 points from their first 10 matches, and they now sit 11th of the 17 clubs.

Phil also repots on the re-birth of Flixton FC, a club which became defunct in 2012 but which has been revived at its original Valley Road ground. Amongst its current squad is DAVID LYNCh (right) who featured for Neil Young's Altrincham.

In a friendly this weekend, Flixton beat their neighbours Trafford 3-2 and the second leg is at Shawe View "next week". RYAN BROOKE scored to bring Trafford back to 1-2, and they were level at the break. SEAN HIGGINS also featured.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

AFC Fylde "announce the signing of Adam Lewis, who rejoins the club on a permanent basis.

After a hugely impressive spell on loan last season, the full-back has agreed terms on a new deal following the expiry of his contract at Chesterfield.

After spending 19 years with the Reds, Lewis eventually left the club and spent the 2024/25 season with Morecambe, where he made over 50 appearances again in the fourth tier...

After making his Fylde debut against AFC Telford back in March, Lewis would go on to make ten appearances...

Head Coach Craig Mahon said... 'He came in last year and helped the club get over the line. He bought into everything we are about in terms of standards and the DNA of the football club, and we're lucky to have someone of his quality signed up for the season'".

Down in Hampshire, Eastleigh "announce the arrival of winger Will Randall, who joins the Spitfires on a permanent deal...

Randall most recently played for Wealdstone, where he made 11 appearances in the second half of the 2024/25 National League season... The 29-year-old [e was also]... involved in Sutton United’s league winning campaign in 2020/21.. He spent four seasons with Sutton United, with two of those seasons being spent in League Two...

The winger began his career at Swindon Town, after making seven League One appearances there, he earned a transfer to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Whilst with Wolves, he went for loan spells at Walsall, Forest Green Rovers and FC Jumilla".

Although they employ the only manager in the National League to be starting a third successive season at that level and at the same club, it has otherwise been a summer of massive change at Tamworth.

The Lambs report on their "first match under the new ownership of US Investor Abdullah Ashraf’s Dawn Group International was celebrated by the man himself... aptly taking place on American Independence Day, as Andy Peaks' Lambs recorded a deserved victory in their opening friendly of the 2026-27 pre-season.

Peaks fielded two complete elevens, in each half against Lichfield City...

McGlinchey gave the Lambs the lead, capitalising on a looping ball into the box before lifting it high over the advancing keeper... (0-1, 30 mins)...

Tamworth Singh; Bailey, Parkes, Cullinane-Liburd, Handley; Calder, Bramble, Milnes, McGlinchey; Roberts, Hutchinson. HT: 0-1

There were goals aplenty in the second half, and the Lambs started brightly with Kieren Donnelly heading home a right-wing cross into the back of the box with just 4 minutes of the second half gone. (0-2, 49 mins) City reduced the deficit on the hour... but The Lambs restored the advantage two minutes later with Donnelly sprinted onto a Teo Kurtaran through ball to finish from 12 yards (1-3. 62 mins).

But City responded quickly and a Crook freekick was expertly struck into the bottom left corner two minutes late... (2-3, 64 mins)

The Lambs rounded off their impressive performance on 83 when persistence from Donnelly resulted in him completing his hat-trick despite the close attention from the City keeper and covering home defender. (2-4, 83 mins)

Tamworth: Rachel; Trialist, Hollis, Fogarty; Fairlamb, Kurtaran, Trialist, Dyson, Lyttle; Wyse, Donnelly".

Worthing report that "Former academy midfield prospect Harvey Boddy has rejoined the Club on loan from Championship outfit Queen's Park Rangers for the 2026/27 season.

The teenager has been reunited with manager Adam Hinshelwood, who worked closely with the budding talent during key stages of his development while still a member of the academy at Woodside Road.

Boddy joined QPR in January 2025 following a separate spell in the youth setup at Brighton & Hove Albion.

Turning 18 next month, the youngster will be recognised as a member of the Men’s First-Team as he looks to take his first consistent strides in senior football".

Hornchurch "announce the signing of midfielder Jack Powell from Crewe Alexandra.

Jack joins the Urchins having previously played under Daryl at Ebbsfleet United. He then went on to play for Maidstone United in the National League before moving to the Football League with Crawley Town, making 132 appearances for the Red Devils...

Manager Daryl McMahon said 'He’s a player I’ve worked with previously at Ebbsfleet United, funnily enough I think I signed him exactly ten years ago.

'He is a terrific footballer who has had a fantastic career to date. He is still hungry and wants to be successful. He sits in the middle of midfield and has got a fantastic passing range, terrific at set pieces, a dead ball specialist and will be a big, big asset for us going forward on the pitch, and with his experience in his career he has had so far, he can rub off on others'".

Boreham Wood "announce that our longest-serving current player, Femi Ilesanmi has decided to part ways with the club following his unforgettable time spent in black and white.

Femi first joined the Wood in August of 2016...

The left back joined Dover Athletic ahead of the 2017/18 season, However, it would prove to be a brief spell away from Meadow Park, as Femi returned to WD6 in June of 2018...

Over the following eight years, Femi established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet, becoming a model of consistency, professionalism and commitment. A firm favourite among the Meadow Park faithful, he went on to make more than 350 appearances in black and white, cementing his place amongst the club’s modern day greats. Throughout his second spell, Femi played a pivotal role in some of the most memorable moments in the Wood’s history...

Chairman Danny Hunter said 'It’s only fitting that Femi was made an offer, but also fitting that he chose to leave on his own terms. Femi felt that he still has so much to offer, but was not guaranteed a starting position next season and was perhaps needed more within the academy.

I wish him and his wonderful family nothing but health and happiness, a blessed future and, as he knows, he has my total respect as God loves a trier.'”

5 July 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports that in Australia's NPL Victoria, CONNOR HAMPSON is seen in action (right) during Oakleigh Cannons' 1-1 draw at George Cross, where they surrendered a half time lead. However they remain top of the league as nearest challengers Hume City also drew, 0-0 at home to Dandenong City.

South Korea K League 2: By the time Daegu brought MARCUS DACKERS off the bench after 77 minutes at Cheongju they were already 5 goals to the good. The only further score was a late consolation for the home side.

Daegu have climbed to 3rd in the league on the back of a run of 17 points from last 21 on offer, scoring 16 goals in the process. Marcus's only contribution to that total was from a follow up after he missed a penalty.

Friendly matches : DAN SASSI was a 57th minute substitute for Newport County at Bristol Manor Farm. They had just opened the scoring, and went on to add 2 more.

With their much altered squad from last season, Aldershot travelled to Badshot Lea, and MARCUS DINANGA was part of a totally different second half lineup. Shots had a 0-1 half time lead, but no further information is available after the 78th minute, by which time they led 0-3.

Barrow undertook the extremely short trip to Holker Old Boys, where ISAAC MARRIOTT, OLLY CRANKSHAW, and KENNEDY DIGIE all came on after an hour with the game still goalless. It was Kennedy who broke the deadlock with a 72nd minute overhead kick, and Barrow went on to win 0-2.

Macclesfield entertained Hyde United, with GEORGE WILSON playing the goalless first half, and ELLIOTT OSBORNE coming on in his place for the second period in which the Silkmen hit 3 goals without reply - all of them scored by trialists.

Hyde were captained by WILL HALL, and DONTAI GABIDON also started, lasting 69 minutes.

CALEB ANSEN came off the bench for the second half as a Norwich City XI saw off visitors King's Lynn Town 2-0. The Linnets lineup included former Alty trialist ZAK MILLS.

And whilst Taylor Swift's wedding may have dominated the news this week, Manchester United "were over the moon to see Ella Toone get married to partner JOE BUNNEY earlier this week".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Forest Green Rovers chairman Dale Vince has issued a statement in the wake of announcing cuts which included ending the funding of the club's women's team.

He wrote, "This will be our third season in the National League and as a result we face the full £1.5million loss of income, it having been mitigated until now by reducing parachute payments.

Seeing this coming for some weeks, we’ve reviewed all spending and our focus has had to be on regaining our place in the EFL - it’s the logical thing to do.

As a result, we already had to cut the boys' football program [sic] - but faced no criticism for that, worth noting.

We believed we had found a way to continue with the women’s team and the girls’ system, by partnering with Hartpury - but they changed their position very late in the day, leaving us facing the six-figure cost of running the women’s team alone - and so we’ve needed to make this decision.

FGR have been supporting women’s football for over a decade... The women’s team cuts have come at the very end and only due to a last-minute let-down - that’s hardly indicative of a club that does not care about women’s football.

Our focus on getting back to the EFL is the most logical thing for us to do, once we have achieved that we can restore all of the programs [sic] we’ve not been able to afford this year - the boys, girls and the women’s team.

That’s our plan, to get back to where we were in all respects, in the EFL and with the wherewithal to fund the things we believe in, which - yes, does include football for women and girls. And boys".

In pursuit of regaining their EFL status, Forest Green Rovers "announce the signing of Emeka Obi on a permanent transfer from Kidderminster Harriers for an undisclosed fee.

The imposing 6ft 6” defender signed a two-year deal with Rovers...

'This is a fantastic signing for us', the gaffer [Robbie Savage] said, 'He was an ever-present in Kidderminster’s promotion team last season. He’s had a great upbringing in the Liverpool & Wigan Youth set-ups, and he's a huge threat from set-pieces.

'A leader on and off the pitch, at just 25, he’s got a bright future'".

Meanwhile, Southend United "is delighted to confirm the signing of defender Rayan Oyebade on a season-long loan from West Ham United.

The 19-year-old is a left-footed centre-back and a product of the East London side’s academy...

Said Oyebade, 'The conversations with Kieron [Dyer, Head Coach]; he seems to have a lot of trust in me and what I can do, so it’s exciting'...

Oyebade signed his first professional contract with West Ham in April last year after progressing through the Hammers’ academy...

The central defender was one of West Ham’s leading appearance-makers for the Under-21s during the 2025/26 season, helping the Hammers finish as runners-up in the National League Cup...

Dyer commented, 'Rayan is an exceptional talent with huge potential, and we feel we can nurture him into being a massive asset for us this season.

According to the BBC "Shrewsbury Town have signed midfielder Jay Turner-Cooke from National League club Halifax Town.

The 22-year-old scored five goals in 39 appearances for the Shaymen last season.

It was his only campaign with Halifax, having joined them in the summer of 2025 after being released by Newcastle United.

Shrewsbury manager Gavin Cowan said Turner-Cooke, who has signed a two-year deal with the option of a third, was a highly sought-after transfer target this summer...

Cowan told the club website 'He is a high-level performer. He's not come here simply to compete – Jay has come here because he wants to dominate at the level. He is very quick, strong and good on the ball, and he ticks a lot of boxes on how we want to play.'".

Cumbria's News & Star reports that "Carlisle United have insisted they have respect for the National League despite failing to attend the league’s annual general meeting this summer.

The Blues said they were unable to send a representative to the recent AGM – something which led to a small fine for the club.

United, though, have rejected suggestions that this fine was as high as £500.

And they said they participated in the meeting’s voting despite their absence, by submitting ballot papers in advance.

Representatives from National League club met on June 6 at Celtic Manor in Wales.

Carlisle, though, said they had no directors available to attend the meeting. The club’s only UK-based director, finance director Suzanne Kidd, was unavailable because of a family commitment, the Blues said...

Carlisle's 1921 operational board comprises of the six Piatak family members... plus Suzanne Kidd, as well as Carlisle United Supporters' Trust director Matt Spooner. Sporting director MARC TIERNEY is also listed as a 1921 board member on the club's website".

After Aldershot Town and Tamworth, Boston United become at least the third National League club to have signed ten or more new players this summer.

The Pilgrims report that "Nottingham Forest midfielder Ben Hammond has put pen-to-paper on a two-year contract to join Boston United.

The 22-year-old made over 100 appearances for Forest B during his time at the City Ground – and was in the Europa League matchday squads against Sturm Graz, Braga and Ferencvaros last season.

Hammond also spent a spell on loan at Northampton Town during the second half of the campaign...

He is known as a player capable of appearing in the centre of midfield or at centre-half.

Hammond's arrival takes United's summer transfer business into double figures, following the previously-announced signings of Gavan Holohan, Nicholas Pozo, Kai Mauro, Terrell Agyemang, George Ward, Jack Holmes, Connor McBride, Lewis Shipley and Luke Faxon".

4 July 2026

ALTY'S NEW SHORTS SPONSOR

Altrincham "are pleased and proud to announce we are joining forces with Creating Effective Generations after the Manchester-based youth mentoring specialists became the latest addition to our list of commercial partners.

Known by their initials CEG, they have care for the community at their core, and, as such, we take great delight in welcoming them aboard as shorts sponsors ahead of another Enterprise National League campaign...

Founder Daniel Andrews hails from Rusholme... 'We are delighted to be partnering with Altrincham FC because our values and ambitions are closely aligned. Both organisations are committed to creating opportunities, developing potential and helping young people achieve success both on and off the pitch,'" he said.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports ...

Irish Premier Division : St.Patrick's had completed the scoring in their 3-0 home win against Galway by the 27th minute. BARRY BAGGLEY only came off their bench in the 68th minute.

Elsewhere, Scunthorpe United report that "The Iron's latest summer addition, James Gale, reflected on signing for the club...

When asked about how he's found the first two days of pre-season training... Gale (left) responded by saying 'It's been tough so far. He's definitely putting us through our paces, the gaffer, but the lads are fit'..

With Andy Butler's notorious hard-working pre-season schedule well underway, the 24-year-old referred to the running that he's already been put through in the opening week by saying 'I think it's good for me as part of my game is that I'm a runner, so I had high expectations of myself and my ability to run anyway...

' spoke to the gaffer on the phone before I joined, and we spoke about my role and where he sees me playing. I don't think it's going to be just as simple as me being up front trying to hold it up. I think there'll be a bit more to my game this year in terms of runs and getting in behind...

'I'm coming into a side with a lot of confidence going into this year. I think the teams that have come down are just going to make the league more and more competitive. The standard of football's getting better and better each year...

'I'm aggressive, I like running, and I can come up with a goal when I need to. My main thing is working hard for the team, and I like it when they work hard with me. So I'm excited to see how that works and how we can move going forward'".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

This week, Boreham Wood announced "the signing of defender Oliver Bainbridge, who joins the Wood on a permanent basis from Premier League side Sunderland AFC...

Having gained senior experience during a season-long loan spell with Scottish Premiership side Kilmarnock, Bainbridge made his league debut against Celtic and later featured in the UEFA Conference League...

More recently, he impressed during a loan spell with South Shields, earning a place in the National League North Team of the Season for 2025/26. Bainbridge has built a reputation as an energetic, attack-minded left back with excellent technical ability and versatility".

Elsewhere, "Left-sided defender Lewis Shipley has completed a move to Boston United following his departure from National League rivals Barrow. The 22-year-old... now signs an initial one-year deal at the Jakemans Community Stadium.

Capable of playing at centre-half of left-back, Shipley began his career at Norwich City, before enjoying loan spells with Accrington Stanley and Cheltenham Town.

He has scored three goals in 59 career appearances in League Two.

Shipley becomes summer signing number eight – following in the footsteps of Gavan Holohan, Nicholas Pozo, Kai Mauro, Terrell Agyemang, George Ward, Jack Holmes and Connor McBride".

At Kidderminster Harriers "Paul Wotton remains delighted at the hunger and fire building within his new-look squad.

The Aggborough chief, himself in his first season in the hot seat in DY10, has been busily adding additions to the ranks... with 20 players currently his disposal. The Manager is keen on just a handful more...

Former Solihull Moors man Olly Tipton joins Cian Harries in joining for the term ahead – both having made it clear they were keen to settle in this part of Worcestershire.

Wotton explained, 'Tips is only 22, he’s played 80 games. He can play in a variety of positions as well, so he brings that utility, that versatility to the squad'...

Of the trend of all of his new arrivals having a point to prove this summer, the boss went on: “I think it’s a really good thing.. I think it’s a good thing to have when people doubt you, and you show them what you’re all about and that little bit of underdog spirit@".

Solihull Moors "announce the signing of Ben Wodskou...

The young forward joins the club from Birmingham City, having spent last season on loan at Brackley Town...

Having already gained senior football experience in the National League, Wodskou arrives at Damson Park as another exciting addition to Chris Millington’s squad ...

At just 19, the Club believes the forward has strong potential...

Chris Millington added 'Ben is an exciting young forward who has gained valuable experience at our level. He is a player we tried to recruit last season. He’s a positive addition to the Club due to the talent he brings with him and for his great potential going forward.'”

Hartlepool United "confirm the signing of Neo Eccleston following the expiry of his contract with Huddersfield Town.

The 22-year-old defender has agreed a one-year contract at Victoria Park until June 2027, with the Club holding an option to extend the agreement by a further year...

Eccleston arrives at Victoria Park after six years with Huddersfield Town, having joined the Club’s academy from Chelsea in 2020... The defender made his senior debut for the Terriers...n during the 2024/25 season before going on to make three first-team appearances.

Loan spells with Barrow and Grimsby Town provided the right-back with valuable Football League experience, with Eccleston making 29 appearances across all competitions during his time with the two clubs..

Comfortable at right-back or further forward on the right-hand side, Eccleston arrives at Pools with more than 30 senior appearances already to his name despite still being only 22 years of age, bringing pace, athleticism and attacking intent to Lee Clark’s squad".

Sutton United "confirm that Klevis Muca has agreed professional terms...

The Albanian goalkeeper has risen into the first team over the last 12 months after a run of good form with the Under-18s...

Born and raised in Tirana, Albania, Muca began his career with the Triumph Football Academy, the youth system that leads to AF Triumph Tirana Under-19s, spending three years in the Albanian capital before moving to England in his early teens.

Settling in Surrey, the goalkeeper joined Corinthian Casuals at the age of 14 for the 2022/23 season before joining Carshalton Athletic, where he made his senior professional debut whilst out on loan at Chipstead...

Muca... joined [Sutton] ahead of the 2025/26 season... [and] went on to receive a call-up to the first team early into his spell at Gander Green Lane, being named on the bench ahead of Sutton’s first National League home game of the season against Solihull Moors, before going on to train and warm-up regularly under both Steve Morison and Chris Agutter, proving to be a reliable understudy to Jack Sims, Chris Haigh and David Aziaya last term".

Still in the home counties, "Dom Hutchinson has left Wealdstone, the club confirms, after discussions between player and club were unable to lead to a new deal being agreed.

Stones' chairman Rory Fitzgerald said of the winger's departure 'We're sad to see Dom leave, although the club's Board is very comfortable with the improved terms we offered him to stay.'

Hutchinson breached the 100 club appearances mark during last season, a campaign during which he featured over 50 times for the Royals.

The 24-year-old, a Watford Academy product, first arrived at The Vale in summer 2022. He had loan spells at Slough Town and St Albans City (twice), before gradually establishing himself more in the Stones' first-team...

"Also leaving The Vale is Junior Tiensia. 'The same as Dom, Junior had an offer we believed to be fair and reasonable,,, We haven't been able to reach an agreement, so both Junior and the club will move on to pursue other options."

Tiensia played over 35 times during 2025/26, his only season at Wealdstone".

A little further South, Woking "confirm that Tunji Akinola has signed a new one-year extension at the club, with an option for a second year.

Tunji has become a cornerstone of the Cards’ defence, making 138 appearances in all competitions and earning a reputation as one of the National League’s most dependable and versatile defenders.

The 27-year-old has also chipped in with seven goals during his time in red and white...

Director of Football Jody Brown said... 'He’s robust, available, versatile, reliable, consistent and a decent human being. He’s already played lots of games here and been a big part of our growth over the last 18 months.

'He’s not going to be ready immediately, as he’s still recovering from the injury picked up at the end of last season. The medical team... are really keen to get him back with the group as soon as possible.'”

Down on the South Coast, Worthing "announce the appointment of Joe Gorman as Chief Operating Officer...

Joe brings a strong blend of commercial and operational experience from across the football pyramid, having most recently served as CEO of Hashtag United – a fast-growing, digitally led Non-League club, following senior finance and commercial leadership at EFL side Exeter City.

In his new role, Joe will take responsibility for all things 'off pitch', working alongside the Club’s Football Director Nathan Bowen. Joe will sit on the Club’s main operating board and will drive our ambitious revenue plans and oversee operating performance.

Chairman Barry Hunter sai... 'Joe sat top of the pile because he provides a great balance across all the important skill sets and will fit in well with our progressive, collaborative culture.

'Joe’s initial focusses will include building partnership income, matchday attendances, non-matchday income, matchday supporter experience and providing an important gateway to the boardroom for the Club’s Fan Advisory Board'".

Southend United tell us that club "has always been built by its supporters. Through every generation, every challenge, every promotion push and every setback, you have been there supporting the club every step of the way.

As we look ahead to the 2026/27 season and celebrate 120 years of this historic football club, we are proud to launch Only Blue; a brand-new supporter movement designed for those who want to go the extra mile.

Only Blue is not a traditional membership scheme; it is a collective, fan-powered movement built to give you, our supporters, a direct and visible role in impacting what happens on the pitch. Every penny raised from the Only Blue membership programme will be ring-fenced directly into the football department.

For just £10 per month, supporters can become part of the collective, helping to fund the football department, whilst receiving exclusives, monthly prize draws, priority windows in ticket sales and more.

The Club will provide regular updates throughout the season, including quarterly communications and an annual Only Blue Impact Report, ensuring supporters can clearly see how their backing is helping drive Southend United forward".

Harrogate Town "announce the signing of right-back Lewis Payne.

The 22-year-old becomes Town’s sixth signing of the summer and joins after spending last season at Morecambe...

Said the former Southampton academy prospect, 'I’m an attack-minded full-back or wing-back. I like to get forward, I like to create stuff, I like to score, I like to assist. And obviously, I enjoy the defensive part as well.'

Lewis, who has enjoyed loan stints at Eastleigh, Newport County and Cheltenham, arrives at the Marcy Fitness Stadium having made more than 100 senior appearances'...

Lewis netted four goals and laid on five assists last year at Morecambe, with Town boss Simon Weaver delighted to bring him into the club. 'We’ve chased Lewis Payne the whole summer,' he said. 'He’s a right-sider that we feel can add quality and expertise in a specialist position...

'He’ll bring that little bit of expertise in terms of right-footed delivery from wide areas, where he can gain a yard and put in a really whipped-in cross'".

3 July 2026

ALTY FANS' FORUM

Altrincham FC "announce the first Altrincham FC Fans' Forum of 2026/27 will take place at The J.Davidson Stadium on Wednesday, August 5th.

To secure your spot at the Forum, simply register for your FREE ticket via the link here. Doors to the CSH Bar will open at 6:30pm, with the Forum getting underway at 7pm.

First Team Manager Neil Gibson (right) will be in attendance to offer supporters an update on football matters, alongside Assistant Manager Lee Jones and Director of Football John Coyne.

The club's new CEO, Andy Duff, will also be joining the Forum to update supporters on non-football matters ahead of the new season and answer any club-related questions.

Our friends from Union Golf Road are once again helping to facilitate the event. If you'd like to submit a question in advance simply click the link here.

In advance of the Fans' Forum we are pleased to update that both Mark Luby and Andy Duff met with members of the Union Golf Road group on Monday (June 29th) to establish more regular dialogue across a range of supporter groups as we look to establish a formal Club Advisory Board in the months ahead."

ALTY MONTHLY DRAW

The Altrincham FC Monthly Draw for June has produced the following outcome:

£500 cash | #368 Mrs Burke
£75 cash | #31 Paul Brady
Hospitality for Two | #215 D. Johnson
£25 cash | #418 P Ashurst
Bottle of Alty Gin | #94 May Davis
Scarf & Pin Badge | #265 F. Read

Congratulations to all of the winners.

ALTY OLD BOYS.

The World Cup is not the only "soccer" taking place in the USA at the moment...

Phil Jordan reports on the USL League One in which Corpus Christi went ahead from the penalty spot after just 6 minutes at Charlotte Independence, but their hosts turned things around in the 5th added first half minute. SAM ROSCOE was sacrificed for an extra forward after 80 minutes, but in vain. Charlotte won 2-1.

Off the field, Chester FC, now managed by PHIL PARKINSON, "announce that TOMMY UDA (left) has moved into the role of Consultant Physiotherapist at the club ahead of the 2026/27 season!

Tommy brings a wealth of experience to Phil Parkinson’s group of staff ahead of the 2026/27 season, having worked closely with both Phil and Neil Sorvel whilst at Altrincham and Nantwich Town.

He holds an exemplary academic record, with a BSc (Hons) degree in Sports Therapy from the University of Birmingham, as well as a Master’s Degree in Physiotherapy from the University of Keele.

Uda has successfully operated Cheshire Physio & Performance Ltd for over 12 years, offering high quality therapeutic services to both high-performance athletes and the general public".

Tommy stated “As a Chartered Physiotherapist and Rehabilitation Specialist with over 12 years of experience in football and private practice, I understand the standards, expectations and culture that Phil and Neil demand".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Manager "Simon Weaver believes rational reflection gives Harrogate Town "believes rational reflection gives Harrogate Town the best possible chance of bouncing back to the EFL at the first attempt...

Harrogate won three of their final six games to throw themselves a lifeline when all look lost.

Weaver says his team’s improvement in the final third of the campaign gives them a platform for success but knows some things never change.

Said the long serving manager, who will mark 18 years in charge of the club later this year, 'I already feel we are already looking a better team than the one at the end of last season. We have added quality in the ranks now, especially in the attacking areas...

Weaver said 'We have looked at age profiling, young and determined characters but they are not wet behind the ears either'".

The National League tells us that "It’s another summer re-set for Gateshead...

For the second time, manager Rob Elliot has left the International Stadium after his team’s achievements were noticed elsewhere...

Tough-tackling former Middlesbrough and Sunderland midfielder Lee Cattermole has been named as the new head coach and with many of the squad who pulled off a brilliant escape last season also off, he can make it his own".

"Two signings have been reported at Carlisle United starting with "Brad Nicholson from Gateshead for an undisclosed fee.

The 27-year-old defender has signed a two-year deal with a one year option for the Blues...

Nicholson is a left-footed centre-back who can also operate at left-back, bringing balance, versatility and experience to United’s defensive options.

The 6ft 2in defender arrives at Brunton Park following his spell with Gateshead, where he worked under Elliot... Nicholson also brings a major attacking threat through his long throw and his ability to contribute in the final third.

Head Coach, Rob Elliot said of 'his long throw, that gives us a real dimension and the option to be more direct when needed. There will be times this season when teams are difficult to break down, and Brad gives us another way of asking questions...

'What is also important is his versatility. Brad can play as the middle centre-half, on the left side of a three, and he can also play at left-back if needed.

'Alongside the other options we have, that gives us really good flexibility, whether we play with a back three or a back four'".

Also joining Carlisle United is "defender Kenton Richardson following his departure from Gateshead.

The 27-year-old has agreed a one-year deal at Brunton Park, with the club holding an option for a further year...

The defender made 130 appearances for Gateshead, all in the National League, and was a key part of the side that won the FA Trophy at Wembley in 2024.

Richardson began his career at Hartlepool United, making his League Two debut at the age of 17... He has also had spells with Spennymoor Town, Sunderland and Notts County...

Head Coach, Rob Elliot said, 'He is an unbelievable person, a fantastic captain, and someone who sets standards every day in the way he conducts himself...

'He is an outstanding defender and someone I trust completely. Whenever we came up against strong opposition, he was always the one we trusted to mark the best players and take on those big responsibilities.

'He is also really flexible and can play across the back line. Physically he is very good, he is quick, strong, comfortable on the ball, and he gives us real versatility'".

FC Halifax Town "confirm the signing of midfielder Tayt Trusty, from Isthmian League Premier Division side Eastbourne Borough.

Coming through the youth system at Blackpool, Trusty signed his first professional contract in January 2022...

In January 2023, Trusty spent the second half of the season on loan at Hartlepool United in League Two. He made four appearances before returning to Blackpool and was awarded a new one-year contract. Following the 2023/24 season, Trusty was released by Blackpool and signed for Maidstone United in the National League South. He made 31 league appearances ...

His next move was to Eastbourne Borough, whom Maidstone had defeated in the playoff semi-final the previous season. Trusty made over 50 appearances for the Sports".

2 July 2026

ALTY SIGN KEEPER

Altrincham FC announce that "Goalkeeper Owen Evans is the sixth new face to join Alty this summer as he moves north on a permanent deal from League Two Barnet.

Right: Owen Evans is pictured defending his goal at the J. Davidson Stadium on 4 January 2025 as the keeper made his debut for Barnet in their 3-1 FA Trophy defeat by Altrincham.

The 29-year-old Welsh stopper brings a wealth of EFL experience to The J.Davidson Stadium, having played nearly 150 games of League football in his career to date...

Neil Gibson [sppke] on our latest summer signing 'Owen's a goalkeeper I've kept a close eye on over the last 10 years of his career. He's become an excellent senior goalkeeper after being a high regarded youngster at Wigan Athletic and playing for Wales under-21s.

'He sets really high standards, has got a wealth of experience at National League level and was heavily involved in Barnet winning promotion to the EFL in 2024/25'">

Footnote: Curiously Owen's debut for his previous club, Barnet, actually came at the J. Davidson Stadium, on 4 January 2025, two days after he had joined the north London club on loan. A much-changed Barnet side, prioritising their league promotion challenge, was beaten 3-1 by Altrincham in the Fourth Round of the competition. On his return for the league match betweem the clubs Owen kept a clean sheet in a 1-0 win for The Bees

Evans (dob 28 November 1996 in Newport, South Wales) started out at Wigan Athletic friom where he had loans at Witton Albion, , Rhyl, North Ferriby United, Sutton United, Macclesfield and Cheltenham Town. He then signed for Cheltenham Town in 2021, where he made 27 appearance.

70 appearances at Walsall followed before Owen returned to Cheltenham from where hew was loaned to Barnet in January 2025 before signing for the Bees in the summer of that year.

... AND ALTY ADD A STRIKER

The Robins' other signing to be reported on 1 July is veteran striker Kristian Dennis, who became he club's fifth signing of the close season.

Altrincham FC reported that "The 36-year-old arrives at The J.Davidson Stadium after leaving Tranmere Rovers, where he spent the last three seasons in League Two...

[Dennis said,] 'I'm really happy to have signed for Alty and I'm looking forward to start pre-season training, getting to know the lads and the coaching staff and gearing up for the new season'...

Neil Gibson [added], 'Kristian is a player I've seen play a lot over the last few seasons. He's an old school finisher; a forward with an excellent scoring record throughout his career.

'If we create the kind of chances we did last season then Kristian is the type of forward to get on the end of them. His experience will be pivotal around the group and he'll also be able to act as a mentor to our younger players.'"

Footnote: Kristian (dob 12 March 1990) made his senior debut in 2007 playing for Macclesfield Town, a club from where, between 2008 and 2010, he had loans to Ashton United and Woodley Sports, before joining the Stockport club.

31 games for Mossley and 82 for Curzon Ashton followed (2010-13) before a move to Stockport County (2013-16) where he made 60 appearances as well as a further 38 on loan back at Macclesfield Town.

78 games for Chesterield (2016-18) were followed by 54 for Notts County from where he had a loan spell at Grimsby Town in 2019.

He left Notts County for St Mirren in 2020 and after 30 games joined Carlisle United from 2020-23 atwhich point he rejected a contract extension. A move to Merseyside foleowed in 2023 when he signed for Tranmere Rovers, where he made 92 appearances for the Prenton Park club.

He has faced Altrincham on a number of occasions (notably for Macclesfield Town and Stockport County).

ETHAN ROSS LEAVES

on 1 July, Altrincham also confirmed that goalkeeper Ethan Ross was leaving the club "following the expiration of his contract.

Initially joining the Robins on loan from Stockport County in August 2023, Ethan (left) quickly established himself as one of the National League's standout goalkeepers, playing a pivotal role in Alty's run to the Play Off semi finals during the 2023/24 campaign.

His outstanding performances, commanding presence and consistency between the posts made him an instant favourite with the supporters, who voted him Union Golf Road Fans' Player of the Year at the end of his first season with the club.

Ethan continued that outstanding form into the 2024/25 season before his campaign was cruelly cut short by an ACL injury in February 2025. Despite missing the closing months of the season, supporters once again recognised his impact by voting him Fans' Player of the Year for a second consecutive season.

After signing a new contract ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, Ethan combined his rehabilitation with a valuable role as the club's goalkeeping coach, continuing to contribute both on and off the pitch throughout his recovery...

Ethan said 'I'd just like to say a massive thank you to everyone connected with Altrincham Football Club. From the moment I arrived, I was made to feel at home by the players, staff, volunteers and, of course, the supporters.

'To win the Fans' Player of the Year award twice is something I'll always be incredibly proud of. The backing I received, especially during my injury, meant more than you'll ever know.

'I'm leaving with some fantastic memories and lifelong friendships. I'll always look out for Alty's results and wish everyone at the club nothing but success in the future. Thank you for everything.'"

Footnote: Six-foot five-inch Ethan, now aged 29, initially joined Altrincham on loan for the 2023-24 season from Stockport County in a deal announced on 25 July 2023.

After 15 impressive appearances, which included his saving three of the five penalties that he had faced, Ethan joined Altrincham on a permanent basis in a deal announced on 13 October 2023.

He had come through the youth teams at Arsenal and Cambridge United before joining West Bromwich Albion, from where he played against Alty as early as 2016-17 season whilst on loan at Worcester City. As well as his loan to Worcester he also had a spell with Redditch United whilst at The Hawthorns.

In 2018 he joined Colchester United from where he went on loan to Maidstone United early in 2019.

After Colchester he signed for Lincoln City in summer 2020. The Imps loaned him to Weymouth in January 2021, where he again faced Altrincham.

The summer of 2021 saw him join Stockport County and in spring 2022 he went on loan to Aldershot Town and again faced The Robins.

He spent the 2022-23 season on loan at York City, which remarkably became the fifth club for which Ethan had played in a game against Altrincham, following appearances against the Robins for Worcester City, Weymouth, Aldershot Town and Stockport County. Ethan made his Robins debut at Macclesfield in a pre-season game on 26 July 2023 before becoming an ever-present between the sticks to the end of 2023 in the National League.

From summer 2024 Ethan was also described by the club as a (goalkeeping) coach.

After an almost ever-present and impressive first half of the league season, in game 28 at home to Braintree Town on 8 February 2025, Ethan was unable to complete the match and was diagnosed with an ACL injury requiring an operation and ruling him out of action for the remainder of the season. As of late October 2025 the club indicated that Ethan would remain sidelined until late January 2026, however he never played again for the club.

His Altrincham career comprised 72 appearances.

ALTY OLD BOYS

Phil Jordan reports...

Pre-season Friendly: JOE HUGILL opened the scoring after 10 minutes for Kilmarnock, who travelled to Northern Ireland to play Glentoran. Joe was one of 9 half time substitutions as Killie went on to hit 4 without reply.

And Scunthorpe United report "the signing of centre forward JAMES GALE (right), who joins the club following his departure from Macclesfield Town...

A 24-year-old forward who brings depth and power to the United front line, Gale started his career with his local side, Long Eaton United. However, it wouldn't take long for him to attract the attention of Mansfield Town...

Gale would make the decision to depart Mansfield, joining Altrincham on a permanent deal in the summer of 2025, a spell that would last just half a season, as despite netting five times in his first 24 games for the Robins, the forward would elect to make the switch to National League North play-off hunters Macclesfield where he would go on to enjoy his most prolific spell of his career to date, scoring eight times in just 24 appearances for the Silkmen."

Footnote: Ironically, it was Scunthorpe United striker Declan Howe who replaced Gale at Altrincham during a productive loan spell in 2026.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Two signings have been announced at Boreham Wood.

First to be announced was "the signing of goalkeeper Luca Gunter, who joins the Wood on loan from Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur until the end of the season. The highly-rated shot-stopper arrives at Meadow Park with experience at both academy and senior level, becoming the first addition to Luke Garrard’s squad.

Gunter began his career with Queens Park Rangers before joining Tottenham Hotspur’s academy, where he has continued to progress through the ranks...

Gunter gained further valuable senior experience during a loan spell with fellow National League side Wealdstone in the second half of the 2024/25 season. An England youth international at every level from under 15 through to under 20, Gunter has already built a reputation as a commanding goalkeeper with excellent reflexes, strong positioning and outstanding shot-stopping ability".

Also joining Boreham Wood is "midfielder Tarryn Allarakhia, who joins the Wood on a permanent basis from League Two side Rochdale AFC. The 28-year-old arrives at Meadow Park with a wealth of National League and Football League experience'''

Born in Redbridge, Allarakhia began his career in Leyton Orient’s academy before making the step into senior football with Aveley and Maldon & Tiptree. His performances earned him a move to Colchester United before joining Crawley Town in 2018...

During his time with the Red Devils, he enjoyed a productive loan spell with Wealdstone, scoring four goals in 18 appearances... Following spells with Woking and a successful return to Wealdstone, Allarakhia established himself as one of the National League’s most dangerous wide players, seeing him score 13 goals in 81 appearances across two seasons at Spotland...

A versatile midfielder capable of creating and scoring goals, Tarryn brings experience, flair and quality to the Wood’s ranks".

Eastleigh "confirm that Kieron Evans has joined Newport County on a permanent deal for an undisclosed fee.

During his time in SO50, Evans made 45 appearances for the Spitfires and found the back of the net on three occasions.

We would like to place on record our thanks to Kieron and wish him all the best for the future".

Hartlepool United "Hartlepool United is delighted to confirm the signing of Terry Bondo following the expiry of his contract with Blackpool.

The 19-year-old centre-forward has agreed a one-year contract at Victoria Park until June 2027, with the Club holding an option to extend the agreement by a further year...

A product of the academy pathways at Oldham Athletic and Blackpool, the striker progressed into senior football during the 2024/25 season and went on to make 11 first-team appearances for the Seasiders across League One, FA Cup and the EFL Trophy.

Bondo gained valuable experience through loan spells with Matlock Town, Marine and King’s Lynn Town...

His most productive spell came with King’s Lynn Town following his arrival in February 2026, where he scored four goals in 16 appearances...

Standing at 6ft 3in, Bondo combines physical presence, athleticism and mobility, and arrives at Victoria Park having already accumulated 37 senior appearances before his 20th birthday...

Terry Bondo said 'This is a huge football club with a proud history, passionate supporters and real ambition for the future. When I looked at what is being built here and the direction the Club is heading in, it was something I wanted to be part of...“Working under a manager like Lee Clark was a big attraction. He has achieved a lot in the game and has a strong reputation for helping players improve and fulfil their potential. As a young player, that’s something you really value...

The striker joins Jordan Hugill, Jack Nolan, Owen Hampson, Chris Popov, Will Harris, Charlie Penman, Brooklyn Ilunga and Corey McKeown among the Club’s summer arrivals.

Lee Clark, First Team Head Coach at Hartlepool United, said... 'He’s still only 19, but he already possesses a lot of qualities that excite us. He has an excellent physical profile, genuine pace and a real presence about him... He can stretch teams with his movement, compete physically and provide a real threat in the air, which gives us options in the attacking areas'".

1 July 2026

FAMILIAR FACES RETURN

Following last week's announcement of their first two signings of the summer, Aidan Barlow and Sam Taylor, Altrincham announced on Tuesday (30 June) the return as permanent signings of two of last season's loanees.

Right: Liam scored Altrincham's final goal of last season, against Gateshead, and is seen here being congratulated by Dan Sassi and Tom Crawford.

First up, Altrincham FC announced "the return of midfielder Liam Humbles to The J.Davidson Stadium.

Alty beat off strong competition for the 22-year-old's permanent signature from Rochdale, following a very productive loan spell with The Robins during the second half of last season".

The player stated "I'm delighted to be back at The J.Davidson Stadium. I really enjoyed both my loan spells here, especially during the second half of last season".

Meanwhile, manager Neil Gibson opined, "I'm a big admirer of Liam as a player and it was great to work with him during the second half of last season.

"He became a firm favourite with our fans, showcasing his abilities and he adds a really positive, creative, attacking element to our squad and the way we play.

"We're looking forward to seeing him improve, as we believe he is an exceptional talent."

Footnote: Born in Miami Beach, USA, on 5 December 2003.

The midfielder first arrived at Moss Lane back on a one-month loan from Salford City in an agreement revealed on 7 September 2024.

He had finished the previous season on loan at Nantwich Town but had ten Salford City starts to his name including the opening fixture of 2024-25 season.

Despite fairly limited game time during the seven league fixtures for Altrincham after his arrival, his loan was extended twice before Gateshead announced that they had signed him on loan on 21 December 2024.

In summer 2025 Liam moved from Salford City to Rochdale, where he had made just a single 86th minute appearance before rejoining Alty on a season-long loan, announced on 12 January 2026.

After three starts, Liam was injured and missed three more matches, before regaining fitness after which he became a regular starter, impressing in his midfield role, before returning to his parent club.

In his Altrincham career to date he has made 22(+9) appearances and weighed in with 3 goals.

Altrincham also announced on 30 June 2026 that Jack Hinchy was the club's "fourth new addition of the summer...

The 23-year-old spent a short time on loan with the Robins from League Two Notts County last season, making seven appearances in red and white.

On his return to Alty, Jack (pictured, left) said...

'I enjoyed my loan spell with the club last season and now I'm looking forward to getting a good start to 2026/27, playing games and, along with the rest of the squad, helping to drive the club forward'.

Neil Gibson [observed that he was "Really pleased to have Jack back at the football club on a permanent basis. He's someone we really enjoyed working with when we first came into the football club...

"I watched him play exceptionally well on loan for Wealdstone at the back end of last season. He's a got a great character and a fantastic attitude - always wanting to learn and improve - and he's a really strong defensive midfielder, who helps build the play and is really good in possession."

Footnote: Born on 30 January 2003 in Swindon, Wiltshire, Jack's previous time at the J. Davidson Stadium was announced on 1 October 2025, on loan from Notts County till the end of the calendar year.

A product of Stockport County he arrived after making a single appearances for County before he left them in 2021 to join Brighton & Hove Albion where he captained their under-21s. In February 2024 he was loaned to Shrewsbury Town where he made 12 appearances.

He had since made 19 appearances for Notts County. At Altrincham he made his debut at Wealdstone on 4 October 2025 but when manager Phil Parkinson was sacked soon afterwards, his game time was extremely limited under Neil Gibson.

As a consequence his loan was curtailed when Notts County recalled him, a move announced on 12 December 2025.

His Altrincham appearances comprise 2(+4) games.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

Boston United "striker Kieren Donnelly has completed a move to National League rivals Tamworth.

The 25-year-old, who netted eight goals in 34 appearances for the Pilgrims in his solitary season at the Jakemans Community Stadium, has joined the Lambs for an undisclosed fee.

Donnelly enjoyed a productive loan spell with Kidderminster Harriers towards the end of the campaign".

AT the other end of the deal, Tamworth "continue to bolster their squad ahead of 2026/27 campaign.

Striker Kieren Donnelly is the latest signing to be unveiled by busy Tamworth Boss Andy Peaks who’s now brought in 11 new recruits since the takeover - an entire team of new faces!

Goal getter Donnelly joins the club for an undisclosed fee and likens his energetic, non-stop style to that of Leicester City Premier League winner Jamie Vardy...

In an impressive loan spell at Kidderminster Harriers last season, he scored eight goals in 15 appearances in the National League North including goals in the play off semi-final and the final...

Donnelly had a whole host of clubs after his signature but it was Tamworth that he wanted to call home...

[He said] 'My favourite player is Lionel Messi but style wise I’d compare myself to Jamie Vardy. I’ve got loads of energy and score quite a few goals too... Be ready for the backflip celebrations!'...

Andy Peaks is thrilled to have another striker in his arsenal for the upcoming campaign explaining... 'I have been having conversations with him about joining Tamworth for a while now.

'Even before his loan to Kidderminster it was something we both wanted to happen... His work rate and energy levels have been paramount to his rise into the National League, he never gives defenders a minute'".

Hornchurch "announce the signing of defender Jack Baldwin from Colchester United.

Jack joins the Urchins with a wealth of experience, making over 280 appearances in the EFL. His previous clubs include Hartlepool United, Peterborough United, Sunderland, Bristol Rovers, Ross County and Northampton Town.

We fought off EFL and National League competition to secure his signature.

Speaking on the move, manager Daryl McMahon said... 'You’ve only got to look at his C.V – the levels he’s played at, the teams he’s played for. He’s had a fantastic career and he’s hungry to get back to down from where he’s from with us and play some football, and help us improve us as a team...

He’s a leader, he’s a good talker, a good organiser as well as being a good footballer and a competitive person".

At Scunthorpe United "One of the Iron's summer additions, Jordan Richards, provided his initial thoughts on joining the club on a two-year deal following his departure from Boston United...

Since joining the club just under two weeks ago, the central midfielder has already endured pre-season testing with the rest of the Scunthorpe squad...

'I've not been looking forward to all the running that we've got planned, but it's part and parcel of pre-season, so I just can't wait to get my head down and show people what I can do. The gaffer's already said that he wants us to be a fit group and to all be putting 100% in'...

Having almost joined the club on several occasions in the past, Richards responded... 'When the Gaffer spoke to me the year before last I was very much contemplating the move but it didn't quite happen...

'I like to tackle, and I like to break up the play as much as possible, as that allows me to start attacks. Hopefully, I'll get myself a goal this season, that's certainly a goal after the last couple of years.'"

Solihull Moors "announce return of defender Alex Whitmore...

A firm fans' favourite during his previous spell at Damson Park, Whitmore rejoins the Club after departing earlier this summer for personal reasons.

Having made over 150 appearances in blue and yellow, Whitmore established himself as a key figure both on and off the pitch...

Speaking on his return to Solihull Moors, Whitmore said... 'It was well documented that I left for personal reasons, but after a summer speaking with the people closest to me and having an incredible family and such a supportive wife, they helped me understand I needed to enjoy my football and this club is the best place for me to do that.

'I had the most enjoyable time in my career here and I'm really happy that I get the chance to continue to do that'...

Chris Millington, First Team Manager, added 'I couldn’t be happier than to be bringing Whits back to his spiritual home. He’s such a strong centre half for our level and having a player so committed to Moors at the heart of our defence is huge'">