Said Coker... 'I’ll lead by example; it’ll be high standards every day, coming in early like I always do. Not much will change – I’ll be who I am – and that should be enough'...

Dyer explained, 'He loves the club, and to the fans, he is definitely one of their own'. Dyer has also chosen Harry Taylor has the Club’s vice-captain, as the defender enters his fifth season at Roots Hall...

We can also confirm our squad numbers for the 2026/27 season.

Ben Goodliffe, Sam Austin, Harry Taylor, Leon Chambers-Parillon, Charley Kendall, and Oli Coker all retain their shirt numbers from 2025/26.

Harry Cardwell moves to no. 9, with Rico Richards inheriting the vacated no. 21.

Joe Duncan takes the no. 1 shirt, while fellow shotstoppers Jack Sims and Josh Barrett will wear no. 13 and no. 30 respectively.

The full list of squad numbers is available below: 1 – Joe Duncan (GK), 2 – Vontae Daley-Campbell, 3 – Kyle McAdam, 4 – Anthony Hartigan, 5 – Rayan Oyebade, 6 – Ben Goodliffe, 7 – Sahid Kamara, 8 – Darren Oldaker, 9 – Harry Cardwell, 10 – Sam Austin, 11 – Lewys Twamley, 13 – Jack Sims (GK), 16 – Harry Taylor, 19 – Leon Chambers-Parillon, 20 – Dan Cox, 21 – Rico Richards, 22 – Tommy Backwell, 23 – Josh Popoola, 24 – Charley Kendall, 27 – RYAN COLCLOUGH, 28 – Oli Coker (C), 30 – Josh Barrett (GK)"

SEASON TICKET CARDS

• Thursday 10am to 5pm
• Friday 10am to 5pm
• Saturday 11am to 2:50pm"

PESSIMISTIC FORECAST

Joseph Pope writes "I felt this summer was the ideal opportunity in which Altrincham could push on and yet I’ve not seen a tangible reason as to why I’d go into the new campaign with renewed optimism for The Robins’ prospects.

The Robins have got one of the smaller squads in the National League and have picked up injuries in the form of Charlie Olson in what will likely be a long-term absence...

I think that a high workload on [a] mall squad will only make it much harder for Neil Gibson to manage.

One of the problems that I foresee for The Robins is a lack of goals... Altrincham’s answer is seemingly in signing Kristian Dennis (right)... I question whether or not he still has got the same poise in front of goal now that he is at the back end of his career...

They lack speed, physicality and I think the calibre they’ve brought in are [sic] too far on the side of having to rely on complete control in games with good technicians (e.g. Hinchy, Humbles, Barlow etc) that they might not be able to always guarantee.

Gibson was able to firefight the club successful away from relegation last term, yet I think that long-term The Robins are finding it tougher to compete.

I believe that looking in from the outside that The Robins were heading South before Neil Gibson got into the club, and with limited investment and a squad that is one of the smallest in the National League then I think that they may well succumb to the landscape of where the league is at".

ALTY OLD BOYS

Hancock, a local lad who played in our youth teams until the age of 17, made his first team Nantwich debut aged just 16 away at Salford City in 2007.

He returned a few years later to play for the first team between 2015 and 2017, scoring 22 goals in 103 games in total for the Dabbers before leaving for Altrincham shortly after manager Phil Parkinson.

He went on to enjoy huge success with Alty, Curzon Ashton and Radcliffe, spending most of these years in the National League and National League North".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The latest to depart is "Thierry Latty-Fairweather [who] has mutually agreed to leave the club and has joined Barrow AFC".

The club adds that "Our new signings will be announced in the next 24-48 hours".

Earlier The Shaymen had confirmed "the transfer of Josh Hmami to Harrogate Town AFC for an undisclosed fee".

Another club hit by the loss of a key player within days of the start of the new season is Worthing who "confirm that striker Brad Dolaghan has transferred to Harrogate Town for an undisclosed fee.

An academy product, Brad moves to Yorkshire to join the National League outfit after another prolific season in Worthing colours... claim[ing] the National League South Golden Boot accolade with 23 goals in 40 appearances...

This is the second farewell to One of Our Own, as he initially departed West Sussex in the summer of 2024 for the heavy [sic] heights of West Ham United, with a subsequent loan spell at Aldershot Town to aid his development with the Hammers".

Yeovil Town "announce the signing of Charlie Lennon on loan from Barnsley until January 2027.

The 20-year-old winger arrives at Huish Park with valuable experience...

Lennon joined the Middlesbrough academy at Under 9 level and progressed through the club’s youth system before signing his first professional contract in 2024. He made his senior debut for Middlesbrough later that year...

The midfielder gained valuable first-team experience during a loan spell with Darlington...

Lennon later joined Barnsley in 2026... making his debut for the Reds in League One...

A technically gifted midfielder with an eye for goal, Lennon adds further quality, creativity and competition to Billy Rowley’s squad".

5 August 2026

ALTRINCHAM FANS' FORUM

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".

NEXT: SOUTHEND UNITED

Last season when the sides met at the JDS on 21 March 2026, the game resulted in a fourth win in six outings for Altrincham,which moved them up to fourteenth and left Southend back outside the play-off places into which they had moved in midweek.

After a fairly even opening period, Altrincham won their second corner of the afternoon when Weaver went close following Crawford's ball from the left, which was heped on by Howe.

From the corner, taken from the right, the ball came back from Cooper's header from beyond the back post and out to Humbles who drove the ball into the net from inside the box (14 mins).

But, otherwise, the Altrincham defence limited the visitors' opportunities and the Robins enjoyed several threatening attacks themselves".

Above: It is March 2026 and Alty's Golden, Humbles and Weaver look into the sun as they defend a threat from Southend United

ALTY OLD BOYS

Friendlies: One of the more unlikely pre-season matches saw Newport County entertain Italian giants AS Roma. By the time DAN SASSI came off the bench after 76 minutes, the visitors had built a 3 goal lead, and within a couple of minutes they struck again. The Welsh side did at least score a late consolation goal, but lost 1-4.

NWCL Premier Division : SAM FREAKES started for Abbey Hey at Chadderton, where they lost 6-2. DANNY HEFFERNAN is still listed as a squad member, but is now 39 and is not likely to be a regular in the match day lineup.

JOHN JOHNSTON'S Irlam, with BILLY HASLER-CREGG (right) in their starting lineup, lost 1-3 to visitors Atherton Laburnum Rovers, managed by DAVE JONES.

RYAN BROOKE and SEAN HIGGINS started for Trafford, who lost 3-0 at Ramsbottom United, all the goals coming in the first 22 minutes.

NWCL First Division South : HARRY CAIN was among Sandbach United's substitutes as they lost 3-2 at Foley Meir.

Midland League Premier Division : HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS played for Cheadle Town, who went down by the only goal against visitors Winsford United.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND didn't pick himself for Wythenshawe Town, who lost 3-2 at Stockport Georgians.

It was a disastrous night for West Didsbury & Chorlton. A healthy crowd of 607 at Brookburn Road saw them totally demolished by Runcorn Town, who won 0-7. LEWIS BILLINGSLEY played the second half.

BEN ELLIOTT has left the club along with Alex McNally. The pair have joined Warrington Town.

Europa League Qualifier : One could be forgiven for thinking that Iberia 1999 were either Spanish or Portuguese, but they're from Tbilisi in Georgia. They'll be the happier of the two clubs after drawing the first leg at Larne 0-0. MONTEL GIBSON played the first 65 minutes.

And, finally, an update from our Cricket correspondent Ian Wilkinson, who advises us that Nathan The good news NATHAN WATERSTON who was marooned on 99 not out after Day 2 of his match for Cumbria at Norfolk CCC, went on the score 117.

But unfortunately, his century could not prevent Norfolk securing a victory by eight wickets.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL NEWS

First Team Manager Chris Agutter was present to answer a host of questions from supporters"

Amongst the manager's comments, he said 'We have a blueprint in terms of how we think we’re going to win the league. We’ve looked at previous success stories – we’ve looked at what York did last year, we’ve looked at Notts County, we’ve looked at Wrexham, we’ve looked at the teams competing at the top end of the table...

We will have certain profiles for each position within that framework, and then we’ll recruit based on that. Data, for example... More importantly, myself and Terry [Bullivant] – eyes on the players, loads of character references, basically building a whole profile for each individual player and then selling the vision of the football club....

I don’t want to be a National League manager – I don’t want to manage 400 games in the National League. That’s not what I want to do, it’s not what the staff wanted either, and that was something that landed incredibly well with the players we brought in.

We’re aiming to be a League Two project, trying to push to get to League One, and they massively bought into that".

For much, much more from the Sutton manager, follow the above link.

Wealdstone "confirm the arrival of young Watford centre-back Josh Mullins on a one-month loan.

Having trained with the squad and featured during Wealdstone's pre-season schedule, his recent experiences include skippering the Hornets' Under-21 side and taking a place on their first-team bench.

'Josh has done very well in the time he's been with us, so we're really happy to get this across the line,' explained Gary Waddock, Stones' boss..

'Getting access to players from further up the pyramid is essential.

'Between all of us on the coaching staff we've got some great relationships on that front, which helps build the trust that Wealdstone's a great place for a young player to be'.

Senior experience for 20-year-old Mullins already includes loan spells - in both 2023/24 and 2024/25 - at now National League North Bedford Town".

At FC Halifax Town "The Club is confirming the transfer of Josh Hmami to Harrogate Town AFC for an undisclosed fee.

Some will be aware that Josh wanted to make a move in the January 26 transfer window with him attracting interest from League Two Clubs, but we were unable to agree suitable terms, given that he was only 6 months into a two-year contract with FC Halifax Town.

In this current close season Josh expressed his desire to leave and he submitted a written transfer request which we reluctantly accepted. Before circulating, Harrogate Town expressed interest in Josh and a transfer has been agreed.

We thank Josh for his contribution to the club during his time with The Shaymen".

According to the BBC "A forward from the National League has found himself at the centre of one of the more unusual transfer stories of the summer.

Boreham Wood's Abdul Abdulmalik is attracting serious interest from Swedish top-flight side Djurgarden.

They have twice tested the National League club's resolve with bids and the latest offer totalled £1m.

That figure is significant. It would match the record direct sale by a National League club, the fee Leicester City paid Fleetwood Town for Jamie Vardy".

4 August 2026

NEXT: SOUTHEND UNITED

Hailing from Barnsley, Boyes now returns to his home county after some time away.

The 24-year-old began his youth career at Manchester City, before moving to Sheffield United, where he earned a professional contract.

During his time with the Blades, he gained senior experience on loan with non-league sides Bradford Park Avenue and Solihull Moors...

His impressive campaign paved the way for a jump League One with Forest Green Rovers in June 2022, where he featured 16 times.

Further League One experience followed with loan spells at Lincoln City, Wycombe Wanderers and Fleetwood Town.

Boyes made a permanent move to Southend United in the summer of 2025".

Footnote: Harry Boyes joins Gus Scott-Morriss, Keenan Appiah-Forson, Slavi Spasov, Collin Andeng-Ndi, Cav Miley, Jack Bridge, Nathan Ralph and Noor Husin as important players to have left Southend this summer. In addition, manager Kevin Maher has been replaced by Keiron Dyer.

Later on Monday, Southend United reported "the signing of Kyle McAdam on a two-year deal with a Club option for a third.

The 21-year-old arrives following the expiry of his contract at Nottingham Forest, and spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan in League One with Mansfield Town and Northampton Town...

'It feels great, and it feels right, which is important,' McAdam said... 'Fans can expect energy, aggression, and directness from me. I want to get forwards and involved in attacking play'...

'We had Kyle in mind for a while but, he was on trial at an EFL club,' Dyer commented. 'So we had to bide our time, but as soon as he became available, we were delighted to get him.

'He fits the profile – great in attack, very direct – and fans got a glimpse of that on Saturday.'”

ALTY OLD BOYS

On the field on Monday night, Phil reports that as a club owner, when you've outraged your fan base by sacking the popular manager who's just got you promoted, it's not an ideal scenario to play your first fixture of the season against the club who sacked your new head coach.

In the match in question, a Carabao Cup Qualifier, Crawley Town took a first-half lead at the LNER Stadium against a York City side who took a long time to get into the game.

They were again without JEFF KING, and ALEX NEWBY (left) only came off the bench in the 57th minute. Although they stepped up a gear, the Minstermens' prospects of a trip to Watford in Saturday's 1st round finally evaporated when the team from West Sussex converted an 86th minute penalty, going on to win 0-2. Inevitably the York fans chanted Stuart Maynard's name, and one suspects on this evidence that life in League Two will be no cakewalk.

Meanwhile, in the NWCL First Division South, two Old Boys were between the sticks as Cheadle Heath Nomads were 2-0 up at the break before visitors Widnes Town fought back to draw 2-2. ANDREW JONES (right) featured for Nomads, while Town had CRAIG ELLISON.

Saturday's lineups in the NWCFL also included several Alty Old Boys; SAM FREAKES was a sub for Abbey Hey and BILLY HASLER-CREGG turned out for Irlam.

Switching sports, our cricket correspondent, Ian Wilkinson, reports that in the NNCA Cluberly Eastern Division Two three-day match between Norfolk CCC and Cumbria CCC, former Alty striker NATHAN WATERSTON ended Monday's second-day of play on 99 not out in the second innings for Cumbria, who ended the day on 197/5. Nathan has hit fifteen fours and a six in his unbeaten knock.

His runs were much needed as Cumbria were all out in the first innings for 172 whilst Norfolk amassed 351/8 after 90 overs of their first innings.

In the first innings Nathan had opened the batting and scored 12 off 32 balls, which included two 4s.

DAZN'S COVERAGE ON THE NATIONAL LEAGUE

Entering its third year as the exclusive global broadcaster of the competition, DAZN will deliver its most comprehensive live coverage of the National League in the UK to date. Every National League club will feature live more than 30 times live across the season, with more than 400 matches broadcast live across the National League, National League North and National League South, including at least four live fixtures every match week.

The opening month of the season will see unprecedented coverage in the UK, with every National League match across the first five match weeks – a total of 60 games in August – available live on DAZN. In addition, new fixture scheduling will see regular Friday night games for the first time ever.

Supporters in the UK will also have access to highlights and full match replays of every National League fixture...

Supporters can choose from a range of flexible viewing options for the 2026/27 National League season. The Season Pass is available for £129.99, offering live access to every National League match throughout the campaign (or on demand where blackout restrictions apply), with more than 400 exclusive live matches, every play-off fixture and final across all three divisions, full match replays and highlights, plus a selection of live National League North and South matches. Fans can also spread the cost with an Annual (Pay Monthly) plan at £14.99 per month, or opt for the flexibility of a Monthly Pass at £19.99 per month.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

The left back sustained this injury during the second-half of our pre-season game against Crawley Town on Saturday 25th July.

At this point, there is no definitive timescale for his return to action, but it is likely that he will miss the whole of the 2026/27 campaign.

Everyone at the Club wishes Ben the best and we will continue to support him through each step of his recovery".

Altrincham face The Shrimpers on Saturday as Southend United's "eagerly anticipated 120th Anniversary Shirt goes on sale ...

Created to commemorate 120 years of Southend United Football Club, this is far more than just a shirt. It is a tribute to the players, places and people who have shaped our Club since 1906.

To mark our 120th anniversary, just 120 shirts have been produced in every size, ensuring this remains one of the most exclusive shirts ever released by the Club.... It will never be reproduced.

Every anniversary shirt comes presented in a premium commemorative presentation box, featuring the four stadiums Southend United has proudly called home throughout our history:

Inside every box is an exclusive premium commemorative booklet, listing the 148 players to have represented Southend United on 120 or more occasions. Packed with historic photography, fascinating facts and profiles of some of the Club's greatest servants, it provides a lasting tribute to those who have helped write the Club's story across the last 120 years".

Prices are from £50-65.

Boreham Wood are thrilled to announce the signing of forward DANNY CASHMAN who joins the Wood on loan from Crawley Town until the end of the 2026/27 season.

The 25-year-old arrives at Meadow Park with an impressive blend of Football League and National League experience, adding creativity, versatility and a proven eye for goal to Luke Garrard’s attacking ranks. He will wear the number nine shirt during his stay in WD6.

Born in Crawley, Cashman came through the academy at Brighton & Hove Albion after joining the Seagulls at the age of 11, progressing through the ranks to captain the club’s under-18 side. In the summer of 2021, he completed a permanent move to Coventry City, where he gained valuable senior experience during loan spells with Rochdale, Walsall and Altrincham before departing the Sky Blues by mutual consent in 2023.

He then returned to Sussex to sign for Worthing... scoring 28 goals in 79 appearances...

Cashman’s outstanding form earned him a move to his hometown club Crawley Town in the summer of 2025, making the step back into the Football League before an injury-disrupted campaign led to a loan spell with fellow National League side Sutton United during the latter stages of last season".

Boston United "have added to their attacking options after securing the signing of former Derby County striker Lennon Wheeldon.

The 20-year-old has put pen-to-paper on an initial one-year contract, with a second year option, after leaving Pride Park earlier in the summer.

Wheeldon spent a brief loan spell with the Pilgrims in the winter of 2024 and subsequently joined National League North side South Shields on loan last season – helping the Mariners reach the promotion final in the process.

He made his Championship and League Cup debuts for Derby following his first spell with the Pilgrims.

The Nottingham-born attacker has appeared in four of United’s pre-season friendlies – as Trialist D – and scored the equaliser against Alfreton Town on July 14".

3 August 2026

ALTY OLD BOYS

Scottish Premiership : Those who remember JOE HUGILL'S somewhat underwhelming loan spell with the Robins will probably be surprised to find that he's quite the cult hero in Ayrshire. Kilmarnock fans consider that it was his goals, after MARCUS DACKERS moved on, that principally staved off relegation last season. When he struck Kilmarnock's second equaliser at St.Johnstone they chanted his name loudly and enthusiastically. Killie took the lead 4 minutes later, but the hosts then took control to run out 4-3 winners.

Welsh Premier League : JOHN DISNEY'S Connah's Quay Nomads, captained by JAMES JONES, took a first half lead through MIKEY STONE (right), but visitors Caernarfon turned things round, going ahead in the 71st minute, holding on to win 1-2. Mikey was withdrawn after 82 minutes.

NWCL Premier Division : The league kicked off yesterday, and relegated Trafford made a good start to their promotion bid with a 3-0 win over visitors Longridge Town. RYAN BROOKE opened the scoring.

Midland League Premier Division : West Didsbury & Chorlton lost by the only goal at Abbey Hulton United. LEWIS BILLINGSLEY was withdrawn after 65 minutes.

There was a full shift from HARLAN RODGERS-MORRIS (right) as Cheadle Town began with a 1-2 win at Brocton.

ASTLEY MULHOLLAND saw his Wythenshawe Town side go down 0-2 to visitors Uttoxeter Town.

Irish Premier Division : BARRY BAGGLEY came off the St.Patricks bench at the start of the second half. They led visitors Derry City at the time, but their visitors from North of the border equalised after 72 minutes and held on to draw 1-1.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Hawkins joins the club after spending the majority of pre-season on trial in SO50. During that time, we saw some standout performances from the 6’6″ striker.

The striker began his career at Hemel Hempstead, before moving on to Dagenham & Redbridge..

His performances there earned him a move to Portsmouth. He spent three seasons playing for Pompey in League One... He would then go on to have spells at Ipswich Town, Mansfield Town, Gillingham and Barnet.

Upon joining the Spitfires, Hawkins said 'For myself, it’s looking to start enjoying it again. Playing as much as possible, staying injury free, and helping this club to do as well as it can in this league'">

Meanwhile, Yeovil Town "announce the signing of Ben Radcliffe on loan from Crawley Town until the end of January 2027.

The 22-year-old arrives at Huish Park with experience across the Football League and National League...

Capable of playing in central defence and midfield, Radcliffe came through the academy at Burton Albion, where he enjoyed successful loan spells with Mickleover and Banbury United before making his League One debut for the Brewers in 2023.

Following a spell with Derby County, Radcliffe joined Crawley Town in January 2025 and went on to make 19 League One appearances during the club’s 2024/25 campaign, before gaining further National League experience with Gateshead across two loan spells.

Comfortable on the ball and able to operate in a number of positions, Radcliffe brings composure, athleticism and versatility to the Glovers’ squad".

Carlisle United "Head Coach Rob Elliot was pleased with Carlisle United's 3-0 victory over Derby County under-21s...

With several Academy players involved and minutes needing to be carefully managed, Elliot was satisfied with the workout his side got before stepping up a level after the break.

He said:... 'We had four or five Academy lads out there, if not more, and we had to play Jack [Ellis] out of position, but he did brilliantly...

'Once we got stronger and the lads who'd trained more got into the concepts, we started to dominate. The only criticism is that we didn't score six or seven. The press was good, the attitude was good and we're getting fitter, stronger and getting more lads back, which is pleasing...

'Stephen [Wearne], Josh [Williams] and Hayden [Atkinson] have all had disrupted pre-seasons and Jack Ellis had a minor hamstring issue, so we couldn't take any risks'...

REGAN LINNEY continued his impressive pre-season with another goal, and Elliot believes there is even more to come from the forward.

'The challenge for Regan is don't rely on confidence, rely on your ability and keep doing the right things. We challenged him on his out-of-possession work this year and I think his goal comes from that. We know what a top player he is at this level and we want him high up the pitch, being aggressive with and without the ball...

'He's hard to pick up because he can rotate and roam. He's a fiery lad, but we don't want to take that unpredictability away because that's what makes him such a dangerous player... He's probably not even at full fitness yet. When he gets there, he's going to be a real serious problem.'"

Carlisle United also have Stephen Wearne's view of the game.

He observed that "Pre-seasons are maybe changing a little bit with the modern managers that are coming in these days. You find yourself doing a lot more tactical work and a lot more detailed work while still trying to get the fitness in'".

Managerless Woking, "announce the signing of exciting winger Taylan Harris on a season-long loan from League One side Luton Town.... bringing pace, creativity, and attacking flair to the Cardinals’ forward line.

Comfortable playing across the frontline... [and] a product of Reading’s academy, Harris earned a move to Luton Town after impressing with his performances in Berkshire. Since joining the Hatters, the exciting winger has continued his development with valuable senior loan spells at Tranmere Rovers and Braintree Town...

Harris said... 'It’s an exciting challenge for me and I’m looking forward to getting started, meeting the lads, and giving everything I can for the supporters'...

Director of Football Jody Brown said 'Taylan offers something different to what we already have. He’s left-footed, athletic, and we, as a football department, believe he will add both goals and creativity. He impressed during a short spell at Braintree last season, and the feedback from their management team was extremely positive'".

Wealdstonereport that "versatile defender Aidan Francis-Clarke [is] joining Wealdstone...

The Luton Town academy graduate has penned a permanent contract at The Vale, bringing with him 18 months' worth of Enterprise National League experiences.

After loan spells away from Kenilworth Road at St Albans City and then Dagenham & Redbridge, centre-back Francis-Clarke signed for Braintree Town in January 2025 - quickly turning the deal permanent a month later.

'We've been impressed with Aidan; his attitude, his energy and the way he's fitted in around the other players,' said Gary Waddock, Wealdstone boss, of the positive impact Francis-Clarke has had during pre-season training sessions.

'He's played recently as a trialist for us and impressed with his strength and pace.

'It's an area of the field we were looking to bolster and we believe Aidan gives us a great option in there'.

With over 60 appearances for The Iron under his belt, the 22-year-old is well-versed in fifth-tier football".

2 August 2026

ALTRINCHAM 1-0 MANCHESTER UNITED U21

Match report here.

POST-MATCH VIEW OF NEIL GIBSON

He added that "we were good in possession for 25 minutes and [equally so] out of possession for the rest pf the game".

Neil Gibson speaks to Jake Cooper during a break in play on Friday evening.

Asked about the injury to centre-back Charlie Olson incurred in that match, Neil paid tribute to Charlie as "such an infectious charcater" who had been "really strong in pre-season".

He confirmed that against Manchester United, Charlie (right) had "felt his hamstring go". Neil added that "It's in a similar area to his previous injury" which had sidelined Olson after he had joined the club in January 2026.

However, scans had shown that the original hamstring injury "was fully healed", so now a scan will be used to assess the new injury.

With fellow central defender Sam Barnes suspended for the opening two games of the season following his bizarre red card last season, Altrincham are restricted in that area for the opening games of the season. However, Gibson is happy that we have "good options in that area", citing the names of Joel Bailey, Lewis Banks and Jake Cooper. However, he added that he may attempt to bring in further cover this week.

"Ideally", he admitted, "we woulld have had an extra friendly" but the debacle of the abandoned game at Wythenshawe Town had disrupted summer preparations and the injuries sustained there had led to the loss of the planned game at Vauxhall Motors, as the manager had previouly explained.

He added that Owen German's long-term injury had arisen after "falling down at hole in the pitch" at Wythenshawe Town, whilst Anthony Forde's current injury was "picked up on the Wythenshawe pitch as well".

More positively Neil explained that the team had been training or playing every day over the last week and that this had "brought us up to speed" for the start of the National League campaign.

He judged that the team's finishing position next season lrgely "depends how well we start". He reminded us that since he and Lee Jones had been appointed on 23 October 2025 the points per game earned by Altrincham would have translated into a ninth position or thereabouts if that return had been gained over a full season, but the team's poor start to the campaign had meant that they only finished thirteenth. He will be aiming higher next season, hopefully to finish "in or around the play-offs".

NEXT: SOUTHEND UNITED

Not only has manager Kevin Maher departed, to be replaced by a new manager at this level in Keiron Dyer, they have also lost several important players.

As reported below, even as recently as yesterday (Saturday) they lost left-back Harry Boyes, who has followed fellow defender (and goalscorer) Gus Scott-Morriss and Keenan Appiah-Forson out of the club (both to Oldham Athletic).

Also departing have been Slavi Spasov (to Yeovil Town), goalkeeper Collin Andeng-Ndi (to Peterborough United), Cav Miley, Jack Bridge and Nathan Ralph (all three to Chelmsford City) and Noor Husin (to Worthing).

Amongst those arriving at Roots Hall as replacements have been former Alty man RYAN COLCLOUGH and another ex-northern face in Harry Cardwell (from FGR but formerly with Chorley)..

ALTY'S FRIDAY OPPOSITION

Right: Manchester United's Diego Leon (5) and Chido Obe (9) look on as a stricken Charlie Olson is stretchered off in the match at the J. Davidson Stadium on Friday night.

The Manchester Evening News reports that when Alty beat Manchester United's under-21s on Friday night, the Reds included Toby Collyer, Chido Obi, Dan Gore and Jacob Devaney who recently all "had some involvement [this summer] either against Wrexham or Rosenborg with the first team but they did not make the cut for [United'] trip to Sweden" which is following that match.

As for Obi, "although the striker almost .. he still has plenty to work on. It's telling that Obi still needs to receive constant instructions from coaches on the touchline throughout a game".

As for Devaney, he "should be sent on another loan after impressing for St Mirren last term nearly scored a brilliant goal in the first half against Altrincham"

Meanwhile Gore "should be sold to the bank to bring in some cash this summer. He was excellent on loan at Rotherham United last season and clearly needs another move away".

The article also says that Ogunneye, Jackson, Leon and Moorhouse, who all also played at Altrincham, "will leave before the end of the transfer window".

NW NEWS

Flixton's joint manager is reported to be Rhodri Giggs, brother of Ryan, the former Manchester United star.

Sancho's contract at Old Trafford expired this summer, with the player "having spent half of the previous term at Borussia Dortmund, after falling out with Erik ten Hag" at Old Trafford.

ALTY OLD BOYS

USL League One : Corpus Christi survived a barrage of 28 goal attempts in Idaho to emerge with a goalless draw at Boise. SAM ROSCOE was one of 5 bookings for the Texans.

South Korea K League 2 : Daegu dropped to 6th as their hosts, Hwaseong leapfrogged them in the table by winning 5-1. Their 9 game unbeaten run has been followed by 2 consecutive defeats. The scoring was all over by the time MARCUS DACKERS came off the bench in the 73rd minute

SONNY ALJOFREE has been trialling with Rotherham United, where he would be well known to director of football Steve McLaren, but there is no indication of him signing.

Scottish Championship : TYRESE SINCLAIR (right) set up the opening goal for Livingston, who beat visitors Queens Park 2-0, before being withdrawn in the 91st minute.

Scottish League 1 : KIAN TAYLOR picked up a yellow card as Airdrie drew 0-0 at Cove Rangers, despite having a remarkable 82% of the possession.

Carabao Cup Preliminary Round : Not many penalty shootouts are won 2-1 - especially after 9 kicks have been taken - but that was the margin by which Rochdale eliminated their hosts, Tranmere Rovers.

Dale had come from behind twice in regulation time, and there was no extra time at the end of the 2-2 draw. JOEL SENIOR made his competitive Tranmere debut, but had only a yellow card to show for it. CONNOR JENNINGS remains out of contention with an ACL injury.

Friendlies : At the Strawberry Arena in Solna, just north of Stockholm, Manchester United came from behind to beat Atletico Madrid 2-1. DERMOT MEE was an unused substitute.

ALI SMITH played the first 77 minutes of AFC Wimbledon's 2-3 home defeat by QPR.

KYLE BROWNHILL played the full game as Stalybridge Celtic made the short trip to Ashton United, winning 1-2. JAMES HARDY played throughout for the hosts.

Another Old Boy to put in a full shift in vain was Maidenhead United's MILES WELCH-HAYES, who was on the wrong end of the only goal at Brackley Town.

PHIL PARKINSON'S Chester entertained Crewe Alexandra. TOM PEERS played the first hour, while BILLY WATERS was a 66th minute substitute. The game ended goalless.

JOSH OLLERENSHAW watched from the Curzon Ashton bench as visitors FC Halifax Town scored the only goal from a penalty.

ETHAN ROSS (left) and JAMES BERRY started for Forest Green Rovers at home to Swindon Town, who had already taken a 3 goal lead before James was withdrawn after 54 minutes. Ethan played the full game, but his return to action was no cause for rejoicing as the Railwaymen went on to win 1-4.

JUSTIN AMALUZOR played the first 77 minutes as Grimsby Town saw of visitors Wigan Athletic 2-0.

DYLAN MOTTLEY-HENRY played the full game for Hednesford Town, who beat visitors Boston United 2-0. CONNOR TEALE came off the Pilgrims' bench after 66 minutes.

SAM HEATHCOTE scored the clincher from the halfway line as Macclesfield beat visitors FC United 2-0. Elliott OSBORNE and GEORGE WILSON both started, but ELLIOTT went off after 78 minutes. GEZ SITHOLE wasn't in the visitors' squad.

LEWIS BAINES and ELLIOT NEWBY started for Morecambe, but they lost to the only goal by visitors Barrow, OLLY CRANKSHAW converting a penalty. ISAAC MARRIOTT was a 73rd minute substitute for the Bluebirds.

Norwich City beat their Spanish top flight visitors Osasuna 2-1. CALEB ANSEN watched from the bench.

CHRIS CONN-CLARKE has regained the number 20 shirt after wearing 38 in the previous Peterborough United friendlies. He was withdrawn after 67 minutes as visitors West Bromwich Albion won 0-2.

Stevenage benefited from a penalty (and a red card that reduced visitors Colchester United to 10 men after only 15 minutes) to score the only goal of the game. Skipper CARL PIERGIANNI put in a full shift.

Kidderminster Harriers made the short trip to Stourbridge Town. CALLUM DOLAN (above, right), hit the post early on, then scored his team's second in a 0-5 victory.

Newport County came from behind to win 1-2 at Yeovil Town. JACK KINGDON for the hosts, and DAN SASSI for the visitors were both substitutes, coming on soon after the hour.

Wycombe Wanderers lost 1-2 at home to Ipswich Town. JUNIOR QUITIRNA was again missing from their squad.

Off the Field : Plymouth Argyle manager Tom Cleverley says he hasn't given up hope of re-signing last season's loanee OWEN DALE, who is still a free agent following his release by Oxford United. Cleverley is restricted by a tight budget, and would probably have to let another player go before he could act.

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

NL Lowdown adds that as regards Boys, "York City and Notts County have both been credited with an interest. Southend have a replacement lined up".

And Southend United have reported "the signing of Jack Sims on a one-year contract with a Club option for a second".

The BBC reports that Goalkeeper Jack Sims has returned to Southend United as a free agent after leaving Sutton United.

The 27-year-old was with the Shrimpers as a schoolboy but joined Blackpool at 16 and has gone on to play for Welling United and Braintree Town...

Sims played 67 National League games for Sutton over the past two seasons.

He has signed a one-year deal with the Essex club, with the club retaining an option for a second season.

The BBC adds that "Goalkeeper Jack Sims has returned to Southend United as a free agent after leaving Sutton United.

The 27-year-old was with the Shrimpers as a schoolboy but joined Blackpool at 16 and has gone on to play for Welling United and Braintree Town...

Sims played 67 National League games for Sutton over the past two seasons. He has signed a one-year deal with the Essex club, with the club retaining an option for a second season".

Also signing a goalkeeper are Kidderminster Harriers who "confirm the season-long loan signing of Manchester City goalkeeper Jack Wint.

Reds fans will have already seen Jack in action for Harriers this pre-season ...

A City player since his time in their U9s, Jack has made great progress through the ranks, keeping seven clean sheet and conceding just 21 goals in his 21 games for their EDS squad last term.

Jack is... currently part of their pre-season tour in Asia. Now ready for a first senior loan after a taste of life as a Harrier earlier this summer, the shot-stopper will link back up with the squad here at the conclusion of that tour".

Boston United "have completed the signing of experienced centre-half Niall Canavan.

The 35-year-old has linked up with the Pilgrims on an initial one-year contract after completing his rehabilitation from injury over the summer months.

He has appeared in the Pilgrims’ most recent two pre-season friendlies as Trialist F.

Having started his senior career at Scunthorpe United in 2009, Canavan has made more than 400 EFL appearances.

He has appeared for the likes of Rochdale, Plymouth Argyle, Bradford City and Barrow...

Elsewhere, fellow defenders Ben Grist and Jacob Scott have headed out on loan".

NL Lowdown reports that "Halifax Town have ACCEPTED a bid from fellow National League side Harrogate Town for midfielder Josh Hmami".

1 August 2026

ALTRINCHAM 1-0 MANCHESTER UNITED UNDER-21S

The centre-back, who was signed last February but was unable to make an appearance in 2025-26 season through injury, had to be stretchered off after completing less than half an hour of this match and looks set to miss the start of the 2026-27 campaign.

Left: Goalscorer Jimmy Knowles pictured during the win over Manchester United's under-21s.

The only goal of the game arrived shortly before half time when Tom Crawford won possession on the right just inside the United half. The resulting cross found Jimmy Knowles who slotted home smartly past the advancing United keeper.

Earlier Owen Evans had been the much busier keeper with the Altrincham keeper making several saves to keep the game goalless.

United used numerous substitutes in the second half but Altrincham looked generally safe in defence.

Altrincham had listed two unnamed trialists on their teamsheet but just one made an appearance, as a late substitute at left-sided centre-back.

Report to follow

ALTRINCHAM : 1. Owen Evans; 2. Lewis Banks, 5. Jake Cooper, 6. Charlie Olson, 14. Matty Kosylo; 8. Liam Humbles, 7. Otis Khan, 22. Tom Crawford (c), 10. Aidan Barlow, 11. Jimmy Knowles, 9. Kristian Dennis.

Subs: 4. Jack Hinchy, 12. Kian Breckin, 15. Sam Taylor, 16. Remi Raymond, 17. Lucas Weaver, 23. Charlie Kirk, 25. Joel Bailey, 13. Trialist A, 20. Trialist B

MANCHESTER UNITED U21 : 1. Willian Murdock, 2. Hebber Ogunneye, 3. Albert Mills, 4. Lewis Jackson, 5. Diego Leon, 6. Jacob Devaney (c), 7. Victor Musa, 8. Dan Gore, 9. Chido Obi, 10. Toby Collyer, 11. Jack Moorhouse.

Subs: 12. Finlet McAllister, 13. Cameron Byrne-Hughes, 14. Rafe McCormack, 15. reece Munro, 16. James Overy, 17. Christian Orozco, 18. Jayce Fitzgerald, 19. Amir Ibragimov, 20. Ashton Missin, 21. Samuel Lusale, 22. Gabriele Bianchei, 23. Enzo Kana-Biyik, 24. Ethan Wheatley

UNITED'S VIEW

The Reds were dominant for much of the first half in south Manchester, but were punished by Jimmy Knowles’s composed strike just before half-time.

A string of changes made by both teams meant for a lack of rhythm by comparison after the interval, as the home side held on for their 1-0 win over the young Reds".

ALTY OLD BOYS

On a night so cold in Melbourne that CONNOR HAMPSON played in gloves, Cannons didn't produce a single goal attempt in the first half, and had just one effort in target in the second half.

Right: Connor Hampson wore gloves when playing in the English winter for Altrincham and now he finds himself requiring them once again now he is playing in Australia.

Welsh Premier League : Llandudno had 4 different players named Stephens in their starting XI as they opened their first season since promotion at home to Flint Town United.

JOEL TORRANCE made his full debut following his move from Bala Town, and was beaten twice after his team took an early lead. However, Llandudno fought back, and clinched a 3-2 win in the 93rd minute.

Friendly matches : DANNY CASHMAN started for Crawley Town, but visitors Reading scored the game's only goal.

Scunthorpe United entertained Chesterfield in a game which was set to last 2 hours.. DECLAN HOWE (who was booked), and JAMES GALE started, and Declan went off after 62 minutes with REAGAN OGLE among those coming on.

At that point the Iron were 0-1 down. James went off 11 minutes later, and ROSS BARROWS entered the fray at that point. The game eventually finished 1-1.

LUKE BURGESS started for Southport, who entertained Wigan Athletic. REGAN GRIFFITHS was a second half substitute. The game ended goalless.

Although TOM HANNIGAN put in a full shift for Bootle, they went down 2-0 at Marine.

And, finally, Boreham Wood entertained a Norwich City XI and, on X, Wood reported that "Regan Booty meets the run of TYLOR GOLDEN with an excellent through ball and the Wood full-back makes no mistake, slotting past CALEB ANSEN to give us the advantage".

The hosts added a second goal to beat the visiting Canaries 2-1.

ALTY'S FIRST OPPONENTS STRENGTHEN

On Friday, Southend United announced "the signing of Rico Richards from Port Vale for an undisclosed fee.

Aged 22, Richards brings experience playing in all three EFL divisions, including playing a role in Stockport County’s League Two title win in 2024.

The attacking midfielder has signed a two-year contract with the Shrimpers, with a Club option for a third...

Richards said ... 'I watched [manager Kieron Dyer] in games while I was growing up, and he’s very experienced on the pitch, so I’m sure he can teach me a few things.

'The main goal is promotion, but I like to get myself on the scoresheet, get some assists, and show off what I can do.'

Richards graduated through the academy of his local team, West Bromwich Albion... Richards made the cross-Midlands switch to Aston Villa, before joining Stockport County on loan in January 2024... [before] finding the net four times in 32 appearances for Port Vale...

In 2025/26 Richards made 14 appearances for Walsall".

ENTERPRISE NATIONAL LEAGUE NEWS

Lee Cattermole stressed he is happy with Gateshead’s progress during their preparations for the new National League season after watching his side fall to a 4-1 home defea...

The Mariners produced a lively display during the first-half and took a three-goal lead into the break thanks to efforts from Caden Kelly, Sonny Finch and former Heed forward Cewdyn Scott. Another former Gateshead player extended the lead in the early stages of the second-half as Paul Blackett found the net...

New Zealand Under-20 international Luke Supyk reduced the arrears for the Heed with half-an-hour remaining - but that was as good as it got as Cattermole reflected on a ‘difficult’ night for his players after the highs of Saturday’s impressive performance against Newcastle United...

[He] said 'It was a brilliant performance on Saturday and I always knew going into a game against a team who are exceptional in possession, full of energy and didn’t play on Saturday was going to be tough. The players put out 110km on Saturday against the ball for 90 minutes so it was always going to be difficult for our lads. We made changes and I have no complaints about the game tonight. South Shields are very good at what they do'...

Cattermole is still hoping to strengthen his squad and one area for improvement is in attacking areas. The departure of Levi Amantchi to Kidderminster Harriers has left Ash Boatswain and Dom Telford as the only out-and-out strikers within the Heed ranks".

NL Lowdown reports that "Boreham Wood have rejected a £750,000 bid from Swedish side Djurgardens for winger Abdul Abdulmalik. (via @skysports_sheth) ,P> The Swedish side are expected to return with a second bid".

Meanwhile, Boreham Wood "confirm that forward Luke Norris has joined fellow Enterprise National League side Wealdstone on loan until the end of the 2026/27 season.

After returning to Meadow Park last summer, Norris made a strong impact for Luke Garrard’s side, scoring seven goals in all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign...

The 33-year-old now joins the Stones as they look to build on last season’s ISUZU FA Trophy final appearance at Wembley and challenge for a higher finish in the upcoming Enterprise National League campaign. During his spell with the Stones, Norris will also be reunited with former Wood teammates Aaron Henry and Joe Newton."